ac 1.2 describe the organisation of the criminal justice system Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the overview of the criminal justice system in England and Wales?
The criminal justice system includes law creation and administration, law enforcement, court decisions, and punishment of convicted offenders.
Who is responsible for law creation in the criminal justice system?
Parliament passes Acts (legislation or statute law) and judges create law by setting judicial precedents and interpreting statutes.
Which government departments oversee the administration of the criminal justice system?
The Ministry of Justice and the Home Office are responsible for the smooth running of the justice system.
What are the responsibilities of the police in the criminal justice system?
The police enforce criminal law, investigate crimes, collect evidence, arrest and question suspects, issue cautions or fixed penalty notices, and send files to the crown court.
How many regional police forces are there in England and Wales?
There are 43 regional police forces in England and Wales.
What is the role of the Crown Prosecution Service?
The Crown Prosecution Service advises police, assesses evidence, decides whether to prosecute, and determines the charge.
What test does the Crown Prosecution Service apply to decide on prosecution?
The decisions are based on applying the Full Code Test to the case.
What is the role of the prosecution in court?
Prepares and presents the prosecution case in court.
What is the responsibility of HM Courts and Tribunals Service?
Responsible for the administration of the courts and tribunals in England and Wales.
What types of offences do magistrates’ courts deal with?
Deal with less serious offences.
What types of offences does the crown court deal with?
Deal with serious offences, triable by a judge and jury.
What is the role of HM Prison and Probation Service?
Carries out the sentences given to offenders by the courts.
What does HM Prison Service do?
Supervises offenders in custody.
What does the National Probation Service do?
Supervises offenders who are serving their sentences in the community, including prisoners released on licence.
What is the goal of the HM Prison and Probation Service?
Seeks to rehabilitate offenders so that they can lead a crime-free life.
