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Sentencing

29 November 2007
Issue: 7299 / Categories: Case law , Law digest
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R (O’Connell) v Parole Board [2007] EWHC 2591 (Admin), [2007] All ER (D) 205 (Nov

The defendant had been given an extended sentence under the Criminal Justice Act 2003, s 227. Under s 247, a prisoner has to satisfy the Parole Board that it is no longer necessary for the protection of the public for him to remain in custody for the second half of the custodial period before he is entitled to release.

The Parole Board’s decision as to whether or not to direct release, which is critical to the prisoner’s entitlement to release after he has served half of the custodial period, must be compliant with of the European Convention on Human Rights, Art 5(4). However, Art 5(4) does not require an oral hearing in every case where the question is the assessment of risk to the public. Whether or not an oral hearing is necessary depends on the facts of the case.

The Parole Board should be pre-disposed to hold an oral hearing, especially where there is any dispute of fact, or any need to examine the prisoner’s motives or state of mind.

Issue: 7299 / Categories: Case law , Law digest
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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Charles Russell Speechlys—Gustina Singgih

Charles Russell Speechlys—Gustina Singgih

Corporate team in London welcomes new partner

Church Court Chambers—Maria Karaiskos KC

Church Court Chambers—Maria Karaiskos KC

Historic appointment of chambers' first female head

Wright Hassall—five promotions

Wright Hassall—five promotions

Firm announces five promotions, including new partner

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Proposed legislation to tighten the rules on pooled client accounts would place ‘substantial’ burdens on solicitors, the Law Society has warned
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Lawyers acting in cases funded by damages-based agreements (DBAs) cannot claim their share of the damages if no damages are awarded, the High Court has clarified
Lawyers have given a cautious welcome to a Ministry of Justice decision to increase Crown Court sitting days
Barristers have been targeted with death threats, rape threats, threats to their family members, physical surveillance and threats from politicians, chair of the Bar Barbara Mills KC has reported
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