NCJ Number
163147
Date Published
1995
Length
114 pages
Annotation
This guide is intended to assist persons who choose to defend themselves in English criminal courts, and to help those who are represented in court to understand more fully what is happening and to play a more active part in discussions with lawyers conducting the case.
Abstract
The guide does not assume any knowledge of the law or experience of the criminal courts and does not cover civil actions. It includes arguments for and against conducting one's own defense in a criminal trial; a brief overview of the criminal justice system in England and Wales; and descriptions of procedures from summons or arrest to trial, in both the magistrates' courts and the Crown Courts. It describes preparing a defense, including applying for legal aid; securing witnesses; carrying out research; and considering strategy and tactics. There are sections on: choosing where to be tried; conducting a defense in political trials; pleas and plea-bargaining; appeals procedures; and useful addresses. Glossary, bibliography