October
UK small claims mediation service wins international award
30 October 2008
A scheme that offers people a quick, simple and free alternative to a court hearing has won the 2008 international Crystal Scales of Justice award given by the European Commission and Council of Europe.
Court statements for families of murder victims 'a success' says new report
30 October 2008
A pilot scheme giving families of murder victims a chance to tell the court how the death has affected them has proven to be a success, according to research published today by the Ministry of Justice.
Justice Secretary heeds victims' voice in RSA speech
27 October 2008
In a speech at the Royal Society of Arts today, Justice Secretary Jack Straw called for a rebalancing of criminal justice priorities to give victims a stronger voice.
Very High Cost Criminal Cases - significant progress towards a new scheme
24 October 2008
Significant progress is being made towards a new scheme of graduated fees for lawyers in very high cost criminal (VHCC) cases, Justice Secretary Jack Straw said today.
Equality in Justice Day
24 October 2008
A series of events takes place today at the Royal Courts of Justice aimed at increasing public confidence in the diversity of the judiciary, legal professions and the justice system.
Future lawyers get 'life coaches' to remove barriers to law
23 October 2008
Budding lawyers seeking advice and support in their efforts to join the legal profession will be helped by a government initiative launched today by Justice Minister Lord Bach.
Public Guardian begins review of impact of Mental Capacity Act
23 October 2008
Plans to reduce the fees and simplify the forms for people making Lasting Powers of Attorney were part of proposals announced today in a public consultation by Public Guardian Martin John.
Courts minister celebrates success of magistrates' courts
23 October 2008
Criminals being brought to justice more quickly, victims and witnesses facing fewer court appearances, and fewer delays to magistrates' court hearings were achievements today heralded by Courts Minister, Bridget Prentice, during Inside Justice Week.
Government welcomes contribution to sentencing debate, says Hanson
22 October 2008
Sentences which both punish and rehabilitate have led to a dramatic fall in crime, Justice Minister David Hanson said today.
Teenager scoops top justice award for volunteer work
21 October 2008
A teenage volunteer has seen off stiff competition from police, lawyers and staff at criminal agencies across England and Wales to win the 2008 Justice Shield, the leading award for outstanding contributions to criminal justice in England and Wales.
Parliament debates new controls on party finance
20 October 2008
New rules to regulate political spending and donations to parties are to be debated in the House of Commons today (20 October 2008).
Domestic violence: six new special courts announced
20 October 2008
Victims of domestic violence will receive extra help and support from six new Specialist Domestic Violence Courts, announced today.
MAPPA monitors record number of offenders to protect the public
20 October 2008
Multi-agency teams that manage serious offenders in the community are ensuring the public is better protected than ever, according to new figures published today.
Justice minister presents awards to drug teams working with offenders in West Midlands
16 October 2008
Dedicated prison staff were honoured with top awards by Justice Minister David Hanson today (Thursday 16 October) for providing support and rehabilitation to offenders with substance misuse problems.