Sexual Offences and the Issue of Consent

Sexual Offences and the Issue of Consent

Sexual Offences and the Issue of Consent A vast number of sexual offence cases revolve around the issue of consent. In everyday terms, the ‘consent issue’ should be straightforward, either someone did, or did not, consent to sexual intimacy. In real life,...
No Free Ride for Private Prosecutors

No Free Ride for Private Prosecutors

No Free Ride for Private Prosecutors A peculiar aspect of the criminal costs regime is that a private prosecutor can apply for their costs to be paid by the State, regardless of whether they win or lose the case. This situation allows persons to pursue prosecutions...
Sentencing – Beware the Cliff Edge

Sentencing – Beware the Cliff Edge

Sentencing – Beware the Cliff Edge Ellis Thomas pleaded guilty to a relatively minor public order offence and was sentenced to a community penalty. This penalty becomes the subject of Court of Appeal proceedings due to the following set of facts: “It was...