Criminal Justice Act 2003: A Guide to the New Law (Legislation Guides)

'Puts a wide-ranging and potentially difficult topic into easily accessible language and clear form ... logically set out and sure to help worried and confused practitioners.' Andrew Clemes, Deputy Director LPC, Swansea University 'Keogh's book will be invaluable to those looking to ascertain what it [the Act] actually says. That he has successfully managed to clarify such a complex piece of legislation is to be applauded.' Justice of the Peace "Those familiar with Andrew Keogh's writing and training know that he is logical, thorough and lucid. This guide, so meticulously researched and cross-referenced, is an excellent resource." Legal Aid Review

Controversial and far-reaching, the new Criminal Justice Act 2003 is one of the most important pieces of criminal legislation ever passed. This comprehensive guide offers a clear explanation as to how the new law will affect current practice. It provides a quick overview of each of the new provisions, followed by a more detailed analysis with reference to appropriate cases and new and existing legislative provisions. Major proposals contained in the Act include: new charging methods for offences; street bail; reverse presumptions under the Bail Act for offending while on bail, failing to appear and abolition of high court bail; overhaul of disclosure provisions; retrial for serious offences; overhaul of hearsay provisions; new definition of bad character and overhaul of admissibility provisions; new prosecution appeals mechanism for termination rulings; complete overhaul of sentencing, including new regime for dangerous offenders and life prisoners and introduction of new forms of custody including intermittent custody. The book includes a copy of the Act in full and details of a website dedicated to keeping you abreast of implementation dates. It will enable you to avoid potential pitfalls and negotiate these radical legislative changes with confidence.