Those who represent and have the responsibility for the exercise of the power of the state are held to account in any healthy democracy by the rule of law, exercised through the courts. Our barristers are committed to assisting in the system of justice to deliver fairness for all, including those suspected or accused of a crime, and those held by the state in prison.
Prison Law
The lives, hopes and expectations of prisoners are subject to greater control by the state than virtually any other group of citizens. Their rights to early release, parole and access to training courses have all been tested in the courts in recent years and counsel at No5 Barristers’ Chambers have acted in some of the leading cases.
No5 barristers appear on behalf of vulnerable prisoners to assert these rights and ensure that the discretionary power of the state is not unlawfully exercised in breach of fundamental protections in the law, and in particular protections of liberty and against inhumane treatment. Our barristers believe fair treatment is required for all persons over whom state bodies hold power and the corresponding duty of care.
Building on the strength of our experience in both related criminal law and sentencing, and in wider public law matters, our particular expertise on behalf of prisoners includes:
Actions against the police
In the course of police investigation, or of a failure to investigate, there can be an important impact upon the lives of a victim, or a falsely accused, the wrongly arrested, and those who suffer the results of a failing by the authorities.
Our members are available to advise as to the lawfulness of action and on the available remedies for those who are unhappy with their treatment by the authorities in whom they must place trust and faith. We have experience representing clients in matters including:
Some of our team are also available to advise local authorities, Chief Constables, and Police and Crime Commissioners, in civil claims, judicial review, appeals by way of case stated, and in matters concerning the organisation of police forces, policies on use of force, and safeguarding duties.
