New Criminal Practice Directions
The Lord Chief Justice has handed down new Criminal Practice Directions which came into effect on 7 October 2013. The Directions include, at Part 5B, a summary of the current practice and procedure applicable to… Read More »
DPP unveils guidance on social media prosecutions
Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Keir Starmer has issued guidance for the CPS on when to initiate legal action against those who breach UK communications laws on social media. The guidance comes after a number… Read More »
Suspended prison sentence for Madeleine McCann contempt
A judge has imposed a suspended prison sentence for deliberate breaches of an undertaking given to the court on the settlement of a libel claim by Gerry and Kate McCann. In a judgment handed down… Read More »
Community orders for data protection breaches?
Journalists prosecuted for offences under the Data Protection Act could be given community orders, including curfew orders, if existing amendments to the Act are brought into force, as proposed by the Leveson Report. Prison or fines… Read More »
Amendments to harassment legislation
Amendments to the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 came into force on 26 November 2012 which prohibit stalking, including by electronic means and impersonation. The Protection of Freedoms Act has made the following amendments to… Read More »
Law Commission launches consultation on Contempt of Court
The Law Commission today launched a consultation paper on Contempt of Court. The consultation paper deals with the following four areas: 1) contempt by publication; 2) the new media; 3) contempts committed by jurors; and 4)… Read More »