The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) is an independent public body that was set up in March 1997 by the  Criminal Appeal Act 1995. Our purpose is to review possible miscarriages of justice in the criminal courts of England, Wales and Northern Ireland and refer appropriate cases to the appeal courts.

The Commission is based in Birmingham and has about 90 staff, including a core of about 50 caseworkers, supported by administrative staff.

There are nine Commissioners, appointed in accordance with the Office for the Commissioner for Public Appointments’ Code of Practice. They work with the Senior Management Team to ensure the Commission runs efficiently.

We are completely independent and impartial and do not represent the prosecution or the defence.

Our vision

To enhance public confidence in the criminal justice system, to give hope and bring justice to those wrongly convicted, and based on our experience to contribute to reform and improvements in the law

Our values

• Independence
• Integrity
• Impartiality
• Professionalism
• Accountability
• Transparency

Our aims

• To investigate cases as quickly as possible and with thoroughness and care
• To work constructively with our stakeholders and to the highest standards of quality
• To treat applicants, and anyone affected by our work, with courtesy, respect and consideration
• To promote public understanding of the Commission’s role

Case Statistics - Figures to 31 March 2012

Total applications*:	14506
Cases waiting:	247
Cases under review:	554
Completed:	13969 (including ineligible) 498 referrals
Heard by Court of Appeal:	460 (321 quashed, 135 upheld, 4 reserved)

*Total applications includes 279 cases transferred from the Home Office when the Commission was set up in 1997.