p. 222. Towards a framework for evaluating the criminal process
- Liz Campbell, Liz CampbellFrancine McNiff Chair of Criminal Jurisprudence, Monash University
- Andrew AshworthAndrew AshworthEmeritus Vinerian Professor of English Law, University of Oxford
- , and Mike RedmayneMike RedmayneThe Late Professor of Law, London School of Economics
Abstract
This chapter advances a theoretical framework for evaluating criminal procedure, while keeping in mind the links between the different parts and aspects of the criminal justice system. A rights-based theory of the criminal process should have the twin goals of regulating the procedures for bringing suspected offenders to trial to produce accurate determinations, and ensuring that fundamental rights are protected in those processes. This approach should be adopted in England and Wales—both on principle and because it is implicit in international documents such as the European Convention on Human Rights that still plays a fundamental role in English law. Separate objectives for dispositive decisions are also proposed, including the decision to divert a person from the criminal process without trial.
