NCJ Number
25460
Date Published
1975
Length
189 pages
Annotation
REVIEW OF THE BRITISH CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM WITH SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENTS.
Abstract
THE AUTHORS DISCUSS THE JUDGES' RULES GOVERNING THE INVESTIGATION OF CRIME AND THE POLICE EXAMINATION OF SUSPECTS, AND ILLUSTRATE HOW OFTEN THESE RULES ARE IGNORED; THEY ADVOCATE THE EMPLOYMENT OF COURT SOLICITORS IN THE MAJOR TOWNS TO AVOID THE NEED FOR THE POLICE TO CONDUCT THEIR OWN PROSECUTIONS; THEY INVESTIGATE THE WORKINGS OF THE BAIL SYSTEM AND HOW OFTEN ACCUSED PERSONS ARE KEPT IN CUSTODY FOR MONTHS ON END. THE AUTHORS PLEAD FOR INCREASED TRAINING FOR BOTH LAY AND STIPENDIARY MAGISTRATES AND POINT OUT HOW REMOTE HIGH COURT JUDGES TEND TO BE FROM THE ORDINARY FACTS OF LIFE. THEY ANALYSE THE WORKINGS OF THE JURY SYSTEM AND SHOW HOW OFTEN A JURY WILL ACQUIT WHERE A JUDGE WOULD CONVICT. (AUTHOR ABSTRACT)