Experts identify Ai chatbot gender‑based violence
Researchers warn AI chatbots are contributing to new forms of violence against women and girls, creating legal and policing challenges that existing UK legislation was not designed to address.
When defendants charged with joint enterprise murder are not “all in it together”
A recent Crown Court case highlights the risks of the “all in it together” argument in joint enterprise murder. This analysis explores secondary liability, intent, and why the key question remains: in it together, but to do what?
A Metropolitan Police employee but not a “public officer”
A Southwark Crown Court ruling in R v Pearce finds a Metropolitan Police pound assistant was not a “public officer”, clarifying how courts assess misconduct in public office and emphasising that the test focuses on an individual’s actual duties rather than employer status.
Jury Trials for Lesser Crimes: The Debate Over a Transforming Justice System
Proposed reforms in England and Wales could remove jury trials for offences carrying sentences under three years, replacing them with judge-only hearings. Supporters cite efficiency and cost savings, while critics warn of weakened civil liberties, reduced public trust, and a profound shift in the future of justice.
‘Res Gestae’ challenge ends domestic violence Prosecution
A domestic violence prosecution collapsed after the complainant refused to continue giving evidence, prompting the Crown to rely on res gestae. Defence arguments on spontaneity, reliability, and fairness succeeded, leading to not guilty verdicts.
Time to go
An overview of early prisoner release schemes in England and Wales, the strain on overcrowded prisons, and the growing number of mistaken releases, including the extraordinary case of a fraud prisoner freed and returning days later.
When the Cause Isn’t Clear: Understanding Defences in Dangerous Driving Cases
When phone use, alcohol and drugs are ruled out, what turns competent driving into “dangerous” driving? This article explores human factors, perception limits, unforeseen hazards and expert evidence – and why early specialist defence can be decisive in serious driving cases.
Barton – res gestae gone rogue?
The High Court’s judgment in DPP v Barton [2024] clarifies the prosecution’s discretion to rely on res gestae evidence in domestic abuse cases, even when the complainant does not testify, highlighting the balance between fairness and effective prosecution.
Should unproven allegations ever be admissible in Pre-Sentence Reports?
This article examines whether unproven allegations should be admissible in Pre-Sentence Reports (PSRs), exploring the legal boundaries under section 308 of the Sentencing Act 2020, relevant case law, and the role of Defence counsel and the Probation Service in assessing dangerousness.
Elon Musk’s Protest Comments: Where Does Free Speech End and the Law Begin?
Elon Musk’s fiery remarks at the “Unite the Kingdom” rally in London have reignited debate about the boundaries of free speech. While critics slammed his warning that “violence is coming,” UK law protects even alarming political speech unless it actively incites violence or hatred. Musk’s words may be provocative, but they stop short of crossing the legal line — a sharp contrast to cases where ordinary citizens have faced prosecution for less.
Cansford Labs – Live Q+A panel
You are invited to join Cansford Labs for a live Q&A in September with their Head of Lab Operations James Nutt and Deputy Lab Manager Abbi Holloway. This is your opportunity to ask them any questions about the science of sample testing and detection windows.
Motoring Offences and Special Reasons – Seeing the Bigger Picture
Motoring offences don’t always warrant standard penalties. Leah Hester of LMP Legal explores how “special reasons” arguments can protect drivers from disqualification, using real case examples to show how legal knowledge and preparation can influence outcomes in high-stakes situations.
Sexual Assault Survivors Gain A New Right to Review Pilot
Molly Frost from Oakwood Solicitors explores the new CPS Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) pilot, giving rape and sexual assault victims the right to a second case review before dismissal.
Sentencing Careless Driving: The Latest Guidelines
In this article by Leah Hester of LMP Legal, she explores the Sentencing Council’s new guidelines for careless driving, highlighting key legal changes, increased penalties, and what they mean for individual drivers and commercial fleet operators alike.
Timing is everything: windows of detection in hair testing – Free Webinar
Join Cansford Labs on the 16th July to explore how drug detection works in hair testing.
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