UK Doubles Magistrates’ Sentencing Powers to Tackle Backlog Caused by Pandemic
Posted: Mon May 02, 2022 5:33 pm
The UK government has doubled the sentencing powers of magistrates in a bid to reduce the backlog in the criminal justice system that has been caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Magistrates across England and Wales can now issue prison sentences of 12 months for a single offence, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said on May 2, adding that the move is expected to free up around 1,700 extra days of Crown Court time each year. Magistrates are volunteers who hear cases in courts in their community. Each case is usually heard by three magistrates, including a magistrate who is trained to act as a chairperson. A legal adviser in the court gives advice on the law and makes sure the magistrates follow the right procedures. ...
Source: https://www.theepochtimes.com/uk-double ... 39796.html
Source: https://www.theepochtimes.com/uk-double ... 39796.html