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Attoney-General’s Reference No 4 of 2003 Under S. 36 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988; Suchedina: CACD 21 Jul 2004

Conspiracy to convert or transfer the proceeds of drug trafficking or of criminal conduct – confiscation order available. The statutory distinction existed between the proceeds of drug trafficking and of crime generally had now been removed, but the conduct here pre-dated the new Act. The offence of conspiracy took place at the time of the … Continue reading Attoney-General’s Reference No 4 of 2003 Under S. 36 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988; Suchedina: CACD 21 Jul 2004

Lawal v Northern Spirit Limited: HL 19 Jun 2003

Counsel appearing at the tribunal had previously sat as a judge with a tribunal member. The opposing party asserted bias in the tribunal. Held: The test in Gough should be restated in part so that the court must first ascertain all the circumstances which have a bearing on the suggestion that the judge was biased. … Continue reading Lawal v Northern Spirit Limited: HL 19 Jun 2003

McWilliams, Regina v: CACD 21 May 2021

The Attorney General sought leave to refer a sentence to this Court arising from the interrelationship between the court’s power under section 82A(3) of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 to fix the minimum term to be served under a discretionary life sentence, and the custodial period after which prisoners serving determinate sentences … Continue reading McWilliams, Regina v: CACD 21 May 2021

Bermingham and others v The Director of the Serious Fraud Office: QBD 21 Feb 2006

Prosecution to protect defendant not available The claimants faced extradition to the US. They said that the respondent had infringed their human rights by deciding not to prosecute them in the UK. There was no mutuality in the Act under which they were to be extradited. Held: The Director had a discretion as to whether … Continue reading Bermingham and others v The Director of the Serious Fraud Office: QBD 21 Feb 2006

Practice Direction on the Citation of Authorities: LCJ 9 Apr 2001

The court laid down rules for restricting the citation of authorities, which rules are to be applied in all courts except criminal courts. The increase in the number of judgments series being available had come to be problematic for all involved, and the need for economy and efficiency required restrictions. Cases cited should be relevant … Continue reading Practice Direction on the Citation of Authorities: LCJ 9 Apr 2001

Varley and Others, Regina v: CACD 21 Jun 2019

Prosecution appeal by the Appellant (‘the SFO’) under s.58 and following of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 against a Ruling together with other related rulings), in which he upheld the various submissions of the Respondents that there was no case to answer in respect of the count/s of the indictment which concerned each of them. … Continue reading Varley and Others, Regina v: CACD 21 Jun 2019

Reed and Another v Regina: CACD 21 Apr 2021

The Court considered a particular aspect of the correct approach to be taken when sentencing certain offences against children under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 (‘SOA’), namely when no sexual activity takes place, for instance, because i) the child is a fiction, ii) the defendant failed to persuade the child to engage in sexual activity … Continue reading Reed and Another v Regina: CACD 21 Apr 2021

Neville, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: Admn 20 Apr 2021

By this claim for judicial review, the Claimant, a prisoner returned from Thailand, challenges the decision of the Secretary of State for Justice (‘the Defendant’) of 3 April 2020 refusing to treat him as a ‘transferred life prisoner’ and accordingly declining to refer his case to the High Court, in accordance with s.273(1) of the … Continue reading Neville, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: Admn 20 Apr 2021

Good Challenger Navegante S A v Metalexportimport SA: CA 24 Nov 2003

The claimant sought to enforce an arbitration award made in 1983. Time might otherwise have expired, but the claimants relied on a fax which they said was an acknowledgement of the debt, and also upon a finding in a Romanian court which created an issue estoppel. Held: A typed signature on a fax was capable … Continue reading Good Challenger Navegante S A v Metalexportimport SA: CA 24 Nov 2003

I-CD Publishing Ltd v The Secretary of State, The Information Commissioner (Interested Party): Admn 21 Jul 2003

The claimant sought judicial review challenging the restrictions on the sale of electoral registers to registered credit reference agencies. Following Robertson (1) the new regulations created two registers, and the claimant sought to be able to purchase the records for its register of addresses. Held: The consultation had been adequate. The regulations did not create … Continue reading I-CD Publishing Ltd v The Secretary of State, The Information Commissioner (Interested Party): Admn 21 Jul 2003

Regina on the Application of Smith v The Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 3 Apr 2003

The case asked what duty the respondent had, in respect of youths sentenced to be detained during Her Majesty’s Pleasure before 30th November 2000, to review their continued detention at regular intervals. A statement said that once a tarriff had been set the Secretary would only consider matters relating to the crime or the defendant’s … Continue reading Regina on the Application of Smith v The Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 3 Apr 2003

Gould and Others v Regina: CACD 30 Mar 2021

Technical issues concerning the relationship between the Magistrates’ Courts and the Crown Court and, in particular, about the powers which may be exercised by Crown Court judges by reason of section 66 of the Courts Act 2003 (‘section 66’), and what procedures should be followed if exercising those powers. Judges: Lord Justice Fulford, Vice President … Continue reading Gould and Others v Regina: CACD 30 Mar 2021

Equitable Life Assurance Society v Ernst and Young: CA 25 Jul 2003

The claimant sought damages from its accountants, saying that had they been advised of the difficulties in their financial situation, they would have been able to avoid the loss of some 2.5 billion pounds, or to sell their assets at a time when their losses could be minimalised. They appealed a judgment limiting the claim … Continue reading Equitable Life Assurance Society v Ernst and Young: CA 25 Jul 2003

Keegan and Others v Chief Constable of Merseyside: CA 3 Jul 2003

The police had information suggesting (wrongly) that a fugitive resided at an address. An armed raid followed, and the claimant occupant sought damages. Held: The tort of malicious procurement of a search warrant required it to be established both that there was no reasonable or probable cause for requesting the search warrant and that there … Continue reading Keegan and Others v Chief Constable of Merseyside: CA 3 Jul 2003

Regina (on the application of C) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 27 Jan 2016

The applicant was a convicted murderer who had been held in a high security mental hospital. His application for unescorted leave had been refused, and he wished to challenge the decisions. Anonymity in the subsequent proceedings had been refused to him, but retained pending the appeal. Held: His appeal was allowed: ‘an anonymity order is … Continue reading Regina (on the application of C) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 27 Jan 2016

Morgan, Regina (on the Application of) v Justices of Dyfed Powys Magistrates’ Court: Admn 18 Jun 2003

Money had been taken by the Police, but after the applicants had been acquitted, they sought it to be returned. Their action was struck out after long delays. They applied to the Magistrates who turned down the application. Held: The money should be returned ‘ . . once it is clear that the claimant is … Continue reading Morgan, Regina (on the Application of) v Justices of Dyfed Powys Magistrates’ Court: Admn 18 Jun 2003

Regina v Gill: CACD 21 Jul 2000

When a defendant was silent, it was necessary for the court to be especially careful to give precise and accurate directions on the effect of such silence as to the drawing of adverse inferences. Having answered questions on some aspects, it was not possible for the court to separate out the issues safely so as … Continue reading Regina v Gill: CACD 21 Jul 2000

Regina v Ali: CACD 14 Nov 2003

The defendant appealed conviction and sentence for sexual assaults on young girls. He complained that the prosecution had been allowed to bring in evidence of previous consistent statements. Held: The evidence of the mother had been admitted in a manner agreed between the defence and prosecutor, and the defence had not gone outside the agreement. … Continue reading Regina v Ali: CACD 14 Nov 2003

Halligen v Secretary of State for The Home Department: Admn 21 Jun 2011

The Home Secretary argued that the defendant’s attempted appeal against an extradition order was out of time and that accordingly the court had no jurisdiction to hear an appeal. Notice of service of the appeal was one day out of time. Held: What had been served was not a notice of appeal but merely notice … Continue reading Halligen v Secretary of State for The Home Department: Admn 21 Jun 2011

Attorney General’s Reference No 119 and 120 of 2005: CACD 21 Feb 2006

Challenges to sentences said to be lenient. Count 1 alleged wounding with intent, contrary to Section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. Count 2 alleged in the alternative an offence contrary to Section 20 of the same Act, for which the offenders were sentenced to 50 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. … Continue reading Attorney General’s Reference No 119 and 120 of 2005: CACD 21 Feb 2006

Regina v Davies (Derrick): CACD 6 Nov 2003

The defendant was convicted of having in his possession goods bearing a a sign identical to or likely to be mistaken for a registered trademark. A confiscation order was made, which he now appealed. Held: Under section 71, a person benefitted from the offence if he obtained property as a result of or inconnection with … Continue reading Regina v Davies (Derrick): CACD 6 Nov 2003

Mantello (Police And Judicial Cooperation In Criminal Matters): ECJ 7 Sep 2010

ECJ Judicial cooperation in criminal matters – Framework Decision 2002/584/JHA – European Arrest Warrant – Reason for mandatory non-execution – Principle ne bis in idem principle – Fundamental right – when the application merits has been delivered in the State Member of issue – Meaning of ‘same acts’ – Autonomous concept – Scope. Citations: C-261/09, … Continue reading Mantello (Police And Judicial Cooperation In Criminal Matters): ECJ 7 Sep 2010

Monaghan and Others v Regina: CACD 21 Dec 2009

Applications for leave to appeal or appeals concern section 240A of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 which concerned the sentencing of defendants who had spent time awaiting tral under curfew. Judges: Hooper LJ, Swift DBE J, Morris QC HHJ Citations: [2009] EWCA Crim 2699 Links: Bailii Statutes: Criminal Justice Act 2003 240A Jurisdiction: England and … Continue reading Monaghan and Others v Regina: CACD 21 Dec 2009

Bourgass and Another, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 29 Jul 2015

The Court considered the procedures when a prisoner is kept in solitary confinement, otherwise described as ‘segregation’ or ‘removal from association’, and principally whether decisions to keep the appellants in segregation for substantial periods were taken lawfully. Held: The segregation was not authorised by the applicable legislation: ‘rule 45 . . (1) enables the governor … Continue reading Bourgass and Another, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 29 Jul 2015

Mielll, Regina v: CACD 21 Dec 2007

The prosecutor appealed from the acquittal of the defendant on a charge of murder. He had subsequently been said to have admitted to the offence while in prison on other offences. Held: The confessions did amount to new evidence within the section. However the confessions were not reliable. They were inconsistent with the evidence, and … Continue reading Mielll, Regina v: CACD 21 Dec 2007

Al-Saadoon and Another, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Defence: CA 21 Jan 2009

The claimants had been detained on the request of the Iraqi criminal court in a detention facility run by the UK armed forces. They complained of their proposed transfer to an Iraqi facility in anticipation of facing trial for murder, for which if convicted they might face the death penalty. Held: The claimants were not … Continue reading Al-Saadoon and Another, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Defence: CA 21 Jan 2009

Kent Pharmaceuticals Ltd, (Regina on the Application of ) v Serious Fraud Office and Another: Admn 17 Dec 2003

The claimant sought judicial review of the decision of the respondent to disclose documents obtained by it from them during an investigation. Held: The decisions to disclose material to the DoH were ‘in accordance with law’ within the meaning of Article 8(2), notwithstanding the width of the discretion conferred by section 3(5)(a). The claimant should … Continue reading Kent Pharmaceuticals Ltd, (Regina on the Application of ) v Serious Fraud Office and Another: Admn 17 Dec 2003

Regina v McCartney, Hamlett, Beddow and Hulme: CACD 16 May 2003

The defendants appealed convictions and sentences for a long series of armed robberies. The evidence centred on the admissions of a participant, whose statement, the defendants alleged was self serving and unreliable, and in one case served a personal desire to implicate the defendant. It was said that earlier versions of his statement had not … Continue reading Regina v McCartney, Hamlett, Beddow and Hulme: CACD 16 May 2003

Sherif and Others, Regina v: CACD 21 Nov 2008

The defendants sought to appeal against their sentences for withholding information about terrorism. Held: The factor determing the sentence was not principally the extent of the information which might have been provided, but rather the seriousness of the terrorist activity. Time which had been spent awaiting trial subject to a curfew enforced by means of … Continue reading Sherif and Others, Regina v: CACD 21 Nov 2008

Practice Direction (Jury Service: Excusal): SC 22 Mar 2005

In view of the new categories of people may be called to jury service, the court gave amended guidelines on principles allowing excusal. The new categories might have greater responsibilities by way of public service commitments. Applications for excusal must be dealt with with common sense. Directions were also given for situations arising where jurors … Continue reading Practice Direction (Jury Service: Excusal): SC 22 Mar 2005

Terrell, Regina v: CACD 21 Dec 2007

The defendant appealed his sentence for making indecent images of children. Additional sentences had been imposed for public protection. He had a previous conviction for a similar offence. Held: The additional sentence should not have been imposed. He had not gone beyond the downloading of images. ‘The link between the offending act of downloading these … Continue reading Terrell, Regina v: CACD 21 Dec 2007

Regina (Smith) v Parole Board (No 2): CA 31 Jul 2003

The applicant having been released on licence had his licence revoked. The decision had been made at a hearing which considered evidence on paper only, which he said was unfair. Held: The case law had maintained a proper distinction between the determination of a criminal charge and otherwise. The first required an oral hearing for … Continue reading Regina (Smith) v Parole Board (No 2): CA 31 Jul 2003

Jaso and others v Central Criminal Court No.2 Madrid: Admn 14 Dec 2007

The Madrid Court had issued European Arrest Warrants against the three appellants on charges of membership of a criminal organisation and terrorism. The appellants had unsuccessfully challenged extradition before the District Judge on a large number of grounds. These included the contention that extradition would violate articles 3, 5, 6 and 8 of the Convention. … Continue reading Jaso and others v Central Criminal Court No.2 Madrid: Admn 14 Dec 2007

Regina on the Application of Ruslanas Bagdanavicius, Renata Bagdanaviciene v Secretary of State for the Home Department: CA 11 Nov 2003

Failed Roma asylum applicants challenged an order for their return to Lithuania. There had been family objections to the mixed marriage leaving them at risk of violence from the local mafia, and an order for their return would infringe their article 3 rights. Held: The threshold of risk test which was to be applied in … Continue reading Regina on the Application of Ruslanas Bagdanavicius, Renata Bagdanaviciene v Secretary of State for the Home Department: CA 11 Nov 2003

Regina v Soneji and Bullen: HL 21 Jul 2005

The defendants had had confiscation orders made against them. They had appealed on the basis that the orders were made more than six months after sentence. The prosecutor now appealed saying that the fact that the order were not timely did not invalidate them. Held: The appeal was allowed. The confiscation orders made by the … Continue reading Regina v Soneji and Bullen: HL 21 Jul 2005

Ayliffe and others v Director of Public Prosecutions: Admn 21 Apr 2005

The case concerned actions taken at military bases by way of protest against the Iraq war. Each raised questions arising from the prosecution of the appellants for offences of aggravated trespass. The defendants asserted, among other things, that there was ‘was a strong possibility’ that the activities being carried on at the bases were unlawful, … Continue reading Ayliffe and others v Director of Public Prosecutions: Admn 21 Apr 2005

Coutts, Regina v: CACD 21 Jan 2005

The defendant appealed his conviction for murder, saying that the judge should have left to the jury the alternative conviction for manslaughter. The victim had died through strangulation during a sexual assault by the defendant. He said it had not been his intention to kill her. Held: The judge need not leave an alternative verdict … Continue reading Coutts, Regina v: CACD 21 Jan 2005

Monument v Regina: CACD 21 Jan 2005

The defendant appealed his sentence after conviction for making indeent photographs and pseudo-photographs, saying tha imposition of a restraining order in addition to other sentences was incorrect. Held: The 2003 Act had brought in an extended definition of ‘serious sexual harm’. However at the time when the order wa smposed, the power to make it … Continue reading Monument v Regina: CACD 21 Jan 2005

Ganci v Italie: ECHR 30 Oct 2003

The applicant was serving two life sentences for Mafia related activities. He challenged nine decrees issued by the Minister of Justice under which he was held under a special prison regime for a period of four years. His case related to delays by the courts in dealing with his challenge. The Court said: ‘the applicant … Continue reading Ganci v Italie: ECHR 30 Oct 2003

Davies (Gareth), Regina v: CACD 21 Apr 2008

The defendant had been convicted of a gruesome murder. He appealed against his minimum tarriff which had been set in accordance with the 1988 act with a starting point of 30 years. Held: The appeal succeeded. The evidence had not demonstrated the necessary condition of sexual intent. The fact that the victim was found named … Continue reading Davies (Gareth), Regina v: CACD 21 Apr 2008

Street v Derbyshire Unemployed Workers’ Centre: CA 21 Jul 2004

The claimant alleged that she had been dismissed for making qualifying disclosures about her employers. The employer said that her actions had not been in good faith. The claimant answered that her motive was irrelevant. The claimant appealed dismissal of her claim. Held: The minimum requirement of the Act was that the disclosures were made … Continue reading Street v Derbyshire Unemployed Workers’ Centre: CA 21 Jul 2004

Attorney General’s Reference v Nos. 31, 45, 43, 42, 50 and 51 of 2003; Regina v McInerney; Regina v McLean: CACD 16 Jul 2004

The court considered appeals by the Attorney-General against sentences considered to be too lenient, and in particular where a community penalty had been imposed rather than a sentence of immediate imprisonment. Held: The Court emphasised the need for the strict care to be taken in selecting such cases, for appeal. The court should not interfere … Continue reading Attorney General’s Reference v Nos. 31, 45, 43, 42, 50 and 51 of 2003; Regina v McInerney; Regina v McLean: CACD 16 Jul 2004

Regina (on the Application of Dudson) v Secretary of State for the Home Department and the Lord Chief Justice: Admn 21 Nov 2003

The applicant had been sentenced to detention during Her Majesty’s Pleasure. He sought a judicial review of the Lord Chief Justice’s recommendation to the Home Secretary for the minimum term he was to serve. Held: In exercising this function, the LCJ was acting in a judicial capacity, and therefore his recommendation was not subject to … Continue reading Regina (on the Application of Dudson) v Secretary of State for the Home Department and the Lord Chief Justice: Admn 21 Nov 2003

Giles, Regina (on the Application of) v Parole Board and Another: HL 31 Jul 2003

The defendant had been sentenced for offences of violence, but an additional period was imposed to protect the public. He had been refused leave for reconsideration of that part of his sentence after he completed the normal segment of his sentence. He wanted a consideration which would parallel the new won rights of review for … Continue reading Giles, Regina (on the Application of) v Parole Board and Another: HL 31 Jul 2003

Carson and Reynolds v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: CA 17 Jun 2003

The claimant Reynolds challenged the differential treatment by age of jobseeker’s allowance. Carson complained that as a foreign resident pensioner, her benefits had not been uprated. The questions in each case were whether the benefit affected a ‘possession’ within the Convention or the discrimination was arbitrary so as to breach the applicants human rights. Held: … Continue reading Carson and Reynolds v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: CA 17 Jun 2003

Jarrett v Chief Constable of West Midlands Police: CA 14 Feb 2003

The claimant sought damages for false imprisonment and assault after her wrongful arrest. She had waived her handbag at an officer investigating a disturbance and been arrested. The police said the arrest was lawful, she being suspected of common assault. Held: The judge was entitled to take the view that, taking the evidence at its … Continue reading Jarrett v Chief Constable of West Midlands Police: CA 14 Feb 2003

In re Guisto (application for a writ of Habeas Corpus) (Criminal Appeal from Her Majesty’s High Court of Justice): HL 3 Apr 2003

The applicant challenged an order for his extradition to the US. He had been convicted in his absence having absconded from bail. Held: He had been arrested and held on the basis that he was a convicted person, but the procedure should have allowed that having been convicted in his absence, in contumacy, he should … Continue reading In re Guisto (application for a writ of Habeas Corpus) (Criminal Appeal from Her Majesty’s High Court of Justice): HL 3 Apr 2003

Regina (Sim) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 11 Feb 2003

The defendant had been convicted of a serious offence involving violece or sex, and been made subject to a extended sentence. He had been released on licence but recalled, and now challenged the system under which it had been decided that he should serve the balance of the first sentence. Held: The system of extended … Continue reading Regina (Sim) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 11 Feb 2003

Roland Brandwood and others v Bakewell Management Ltd: CA 30 Jan 2003

House owners had used vehicular access across a common to get to their houses for many years. The commons owner required them to purchase the right, and they replied that they had acquired the right by lost modern grant and/or by prescription. Held: The use of a right of way over a common by vehicles … Continue reading Roland Brandwood and others v Bakewell Management Ltd: CA 30 Jan 2003

Lee-Hirons v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 27 Jul 2016

The appellant had been detained in a mental hospital after a conviction. Later released, he was recalled, but he was not given written reasons as required by a DoH circular. However the SS referred the recall immediately to the Tribunal. He appealed from refusal of a finding that his subsequent detention had been unlawful. Held: … Continue reading Lee-Hirons v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 27 Jul 2016

Hussain v The United Kingdom: ECHR 21 Feb 1996

The determination of a life sentence by the Home Secretary without recourse to a court was unlawful. There had been a violation of article 5(4) because the applicant who had been detained at Her Majesty’s pleasure was unable, after the expiry of his punitive period, to bring the case of his continued detention before a … Continue reading Hussain v The United Kingdom: ECHR 21 Feb 1996

Zumtobel v Austria: ECHR 21 Sep 1993

The Zumtobel partnership objected to the compulsory purchase of their farming land to build the L52 by-pass road in the Austrian Vorarlberg. The appropriate Government committee heard their objections but confirmed the order. They appealed to an administrative court which said that the Government had taken proper matters into account and that it was not … Continue reading Zumtobel v Austria: ECHR 21 Sep 1993

Bloggs 61, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: CA 18 Jun 2003

The applicant sought review of a decision to remove him from a witness protection scheme within the prison. He claimed that having been promised protection, he had a legitimate expectation of protection, having been told he would receive protection while he was in prison. He had not eventually been relied upon as a witness. Held: … Continue reading Bloggs 61, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: CA 18 Jun 2003

Jones and Milling, Olditch and Pritchard, and Richards v Gloucestershire Crown Prosecution Service: CACD 21 Jul 2004

The court considered the extent to which the defendants in the proceedings can rely on their beliefs as to the unlawfulness of the United Kingdom’s actions in preparing for, declaring, and waging war in Iraq in 2003 in a defence to a charge of criminal damage. Held: International law was to be allowed for in … Continue reading Jones and Milling, Olditch and Pritchard, and Richards v Gloucestershire Crown Prosecution Service: CACD 21 Jul 2004

Regina (Sim) v Parole Board: CA 18 Dec 2003

The prisoner had been sentenced to an extended term of five years imprisonment for indecent assault. He had been released, and then recalled for alleged breaches of his licence. The respondent appealed findings that such a recall was subject to article 5, and that his release would be mandatory under s44A(b) if his continued detention … Continue reading Regina (Sim) v Parole Board: CA 18 Dec 2003

Regina v Feltham Magistrate’s Court, ex Parte Ebrahim, Director of Public Prosecutions: Admn 21 Feb 2001

The court considered how cases should be handled where video evidence of relevance to a defendant’s case had been destroyed, and the defendant asserted abuse of process. Held: The discretion to stay proceedings should be employed only in exceptional circumstances. Two categories applied: where the defendant could no longer receive a fair trial, and where … Continue reading Regina v Feltham Magistrate’s Court, ex Parte Ebrahim, Director of Public Prosecutions: Admn 21 Feb 2001

Regina v Smith, D: CACD 21 Dec 2005

The defendant appealed his conviction for five counts of gross indecency with a child, complaining that the court had admitted as evidence of propensity, the fact that other allegations had been made against him. Held: The allegations were admissible as evidence of propensity, through section 10(1)(d), but through 10(1)(c) as ‘important explanatory evidence. Just what … Continue reading Regina v Smith, D: CACD 21 Dec 2005

Practice Statement (Juveniles: Murder Tariffs): CACD 27 Jul 2000

Legislation is to be enacted to set the tariff for life sentences for youths to be sentenced to life for murder. Until enacted the Lord Chief Justice gave recommendations for both existing and new cases, and the Home Secretary will follow them. Before making a recommendation the Lord Chief Justice will seek representations from the … Continue reading Practice Statement (Juveniles: Murder Tariffs): CACD 27 Jul 2000

Attorney General’s Reference (No 3 of 2003) (Rogan): CANI 2001

The court discussed the need to take notes of meetings in chambers between the judge and counsel. The court set out four principles to be applied: ‘1. There should be freedom of access for counsel to judges, but that does not mean freedom to discuss matters which can perfectly well be discussed in open court. … Continue reading Attorney General’s Reference (No 3 of 2003) (Rogan): CANI 2001

In re S (A Child) (Identification: Restrictions on Publication): CA 10 Jul 2003

An order was sought to protect from publicity a child whose mother faced trial for the murder of his brother. The child was now in care. Held: The court must balance the need to protect the child with the need for freedom of the press. The issue in the case was not itself about the … Continue reading In re S (A Child) (Identification: Restrictions on Publication): CA 10 Jul 2003

Regina v Brentford Justices Ex parte Wong: QBD 1981

The defendant had been involved in a traffic accident. Very shortly before the expiry of the six month time limit, the prosecutor issued a careless driving summons apparently in order to preserve the possibility of a prosecution without yet having made his mind up to continue. He decided to continue only three months later. The … Continue reading Regina v Brentford Justices Ex parte Wong: QBD 1981

Regina v XY: CACD 21 Jul 2005

Defendants appealed orders made under the 2003 Act. Held: The 2003 Act required supplementary procedural provisions in order to work. Those provisions had not been isued, and this risked, amongst other things, the wast eof judicial resources. This case wouldhave to be adjourned. The position at the moment was obscure to the point of being … Continue reading Regina v XY: CACD 21 Jul 2005

Practice Statement (Crime: Life sentences): LCJ 31 May 2002

The statement followed the report of the Sentencing Advisory Panel of March 15, 2002. The statement contained guidance, not firm rules. The phrase ‘minimum term’ should replace the term ‘tariff’. Offenders are normally not released on the expiry of the minimum term. The judge should say how the minimum term had been arrived at, and … Continue reading Practice Statement (Crime: Life sentences): LCJ 31 May 2002

Kessie-Adjei, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: Admn 30 Mar 2022

The claimant challenged the lawfulness of his detention between 15 January and 4 March 2021 (‘the unlawful detention challenge’). He was arrested on 15 January 2021 on the basis that he was unlawfully at large and returned to prison to serve the remainder of the determinate sentence imposed by Southwark Crown Court on 9 February … Continue reading Kessie-Adjei, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: Admn 30 Mar 2022

Lloyd v Bow Street Magistrates Court: Admn 8 Oct 2003

The defendant had been convicted and made subect to a confiscation order in 1996. A final order for enforcement was made in late 2002. The defendant said the delay in the enforcement proceedings was a breach of his right to a trial within a reasonable time. Held: The reasonable time guarantee afforded by Article 6.1 … Continue reading Lloyd v Bow Street Magistrates Court: Admn 8 Oct 2003

JD v East Berkshire Community Health NHS Trust and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

Parents of children had falsely and negligently been accused of abusing their children. The children sought damages for negligence against the doctors or social workers who had made the statements supporting the actions taken. The House was asked if the suffering of psychiatric injury by the parent was a foreseeable result of making it and … Continue reading JD v East Berkshire Community Health NHS Trust and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

Stott, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 28 Nov 2018

Extended Determinate Sentence created Other Status The prisoner was subject to an extended determinate sentence (21 years plus 4) for 10 offences of rape. He complained that as such he would only be eligible for parole after serving two thirds of his sentence rather than one third, and said that this was discriminatory. Held: The … Continue reading Stott, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 28 Nov 2018

Rymer v Director of Public Prosecutions: Admn 21 Jul 2010

The defendant had pleaded guilty by post, but on being called to court to face a possible disqualification from driving he was refused the chance to re-open his plea. The action had been begun under the written charge procedure introduced by the 2003 Act. The notification he had been given said that the conviction dated … Continue reading Rymer v Director of Public Prosecutions: Admn 21 Jul 2010

Sher and Others v Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police and Others: Admn 21 Jul 2010

The claimants, Pakistani students in the UK on student visas, had been arrested and held by the defendants under the 2000 Act before being released 13 days later without charge. They were at first held incognito. They said that their arrest and detentions had been unlawful since they had not been given sufficient information about … Continue reading Sher and Others v Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police and Others: Admn 21 Jul 2010

Swain v Hillman: CA 21 Oct 1999

Strike out – Realistic Not Fanciful Chance Needed The proper test for whether an action should be struck out under the new Rules was whether it had a realistic as opposed to a fanciful prospect of success. There was no justification for further attempts to explain the meaning of what are clear words. The judge … Continue reading Swain v Hillman: CA 21 Oct 1999

Regina v Marchant and Another: CACD 21 Jul 2003

The second defendant, a farmer, employed the first defendant, inter alia, to drive his tractor. The tractor, when fitted up was necessarily dangerous, but was licensed to be driven on the roads. There was a fatal accident on the highway. The defendants appealed from convictions for causing death by dangerous driving. Held: The Court concluded … Continue reading Regina v Marchant and Another: CACD 21 Jul 2003

AN, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal (Northern Region) and others: CA 21 Dec 2005

The appellant was detained under section 37 of the 1983 Act as a mental patient with a restriction under section 41. He sought his release. Held: The standard of proof in such applications remained the balance of probabilities, but that standard was flexible, and varied according to the seriousness of the allegation. The only misdirection … Continue reading AN, Regina (on the Application of) v Mental Health Review Tribunal (Northern Region) and others: CA 21 Dec 2005

Bellinger v Bellinger: HL 10 Apr 2003

Transgender Male to Female not to marry as Female The parties had gone through a form of marriage, but Mrs B had previously undergone gender re-assignment surgery. Section 11(c) of the 1973 Act required a marriage to be between a male and a female. It was argued that the section was incompatible with the claimant’s … Continue reading Bellinger v Bellinger: HL 10 Apr 2003

Hallam, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 30 Jan 2019

These appeals concern the statutory provisions governing the eligibility for compensation of persons convicted of a criminal offence where their conviction is subsequently quashed (or they are pardoned) because of the impact of fresh evidence. It was argued that the failure to make payment amounted to a denial of the right to the presumption of … Continue reading Hallam, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 30 Jan 2019

Adams, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 11 May 2011

The three claimants had each been convicted of murders and served time. Their convictions had been reversed eventually, and they now appealed against the refusal of compensation for imprisonment, saying that there had been a miscarriage of justice. Held: The appeal of Adams was denied, but those of MacDermott and McCartney allowed (by majority). The … Continue reading Adams, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 11 May 2011

Roddis, Regina v: CACD 15 Oct 2021

Nine counts of voyeurism, contrary to section 67(3) and (5) of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 Lord Justice Edis, Mr Justice Turner, Her Honour Judge Karu, (Recorder of Southwark) [2021] EWCA Crim 1583 Bailii England and Wales Criminal Sentencing Updated: 24 December 2021; Ref: scu.670356

Aaron v The Law Society (the Office of the Supervision of Solicitors): QBD 13 Oct 2003

The appellant challenged an order suspending him from practice as a solicitor for two years. He had previous findings of professional misconduct in failing to pay counsels’ fees. In the course of later disciplinary proceedings he was found to have misled the court as to the circumstances of a tribunal hearing when obtaining a stay. … Continue reading Aaron v The Law Society (the Office of the Supervision of Solicitors): QBD 13 Oct 2003

Darby v The Law Society (the Office of the Supervision of Solicitors): QBD 13 Oct 2003

The solicitor appealed findings of misconduct. He had acted for a builder who complained about breaches of confidentiality and a failure to provide written information on costs. Held: The appeal was by way of a rehearing (Preiss), but should differ from the original tribunal only in a clear case. Here there was no justification for … Continue reading Darby v The Law Society (the Office of the Supervision of Solicitors): QBD 13 Oct 2003

The Secretary of State for Justice v A Local Authority and Others: CA 22 Oct 2021

Appeal from a decision that care workers would not commit a criminal offence under section 39 of the 2003 Act were they to make the practical arrangements for a 27 year old man to visit a sex worker in circumstances where he has capacity (within the meaning of the 2005 Act) to consent to sexual … Continue reading The Secretary of State for Justice v A Local Authority and Others: CA 22 Oct 2021

Regina on the Application of Clift v Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 13 Jun 2003

The claimant had been sentenced to 18 years imprisonment. He challenged the differing treatment for parole purposes of those sentenced to more than 15 years, as infringing his human rights, insofar as the decision was retained by the Home Secretary. Held: The decision itself was clearly not irrational. As to the involvement of the Home … Continue reading Regina on the Application of Clift v Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 13 Jun 2003

The Coca-Cola Company and Another v Cengiz Aytacli and others: ChD 30 Jan 2003

The claimant having succeeded in an action against the defendants, now sought an order for their committal for contempt, accusing them of having given false evidence, and of having failed to comply with court orders made. The defendant asserted a right not to incriminate himself, and gave no evidence. He now claimed to have been … Continue reading The Coca-Cola Company and Another v Cengiz Aytacli and others: ChD 30 Jan 2003

Bakewell Management Ltd v Brandwood and Others: ChD 21 Mar 2002

The claimant sought a declaration that he had acquired an easement over land by driving over it, over several years. The land owner denied the easement, saying that section 193 made the claimant’s activity a crime, and that, following Hanning, criminal activity could not be used to found a claim of adverse possession. The claimant … Continue reading Bakewell Management Ltd v Brandwood and Others: ChD 21 Mar 2002

MT Realisations Limited (In Liquidation) v Digital Equipment Co Limited: CA 10 Apr 2003

The company was insolvent, depending upon loans to it from its parent company. In the liquidation, it was claimed that in a scheme for the acquisition of the shares, the assumption of liability to repay a loan amounted to unlawful financial assistance in the acquisition of its shares. The claimant company appealed a striking out … Continue reading MT Realisations Limited (In Liquidation) v Digital Equipment Co Limited: CA 10 Apr 2003

O’Brien v Chief Constable of the South Wales Police: CA 23 Jul 2003

The claimant sought damages for malicious prosecution, and sought to adduce similar fact evidence. The defendant appealed an order admitting the evidence. Held: Comparisons between admission of similar fact evidence in civil and criminal proceedings were made. In general, the greater the putative force of the evidence the less ready a court should be to … Continue reading O’Brien v Chief Constable of the South Wales Police: CA 23 Jul 2003

Bucnys v Ministry of Justice: SC 20 Nov 2013

The Court considered requests made by European Arrest Warrants for the surrender under Part 1 of the Extradition Act 2003 of three persons wanted to serve sentences imposed upon their conviction in other member states of the European Union. The court was asked whether the requests are open to challenge on the basis that (i) … Continue reading Bucnys v Ministry of Justice: SC 20 Nov 2013

Regina v Kempster: CACD 11 Dec 2003

Mantell LJ said that: ‘The judge has a discretion whether or not to grant an adjournment so as to permit fresh counsel to be instructed. The discretion has to be exercised with regard to the interests of justice in the particular case. The interests of the defendant, but also those of the prosecution, the witnesses … Continue reading Regina v Kempster: CACD 11 Dec 2003