We recognise that an active and motivated approach is needed in all aspects of Prison Law. Funding is more widely available then previously, (through the Criminal Defence Service) and the criteria are both means and merit tested. We are happy to advise on funding issues.

This area of law often involves significant issues of law and fact. The provisions for indeterminate sentences were extended under the Criminal Justice Act 2003. The Dangerous Offenders provisions came into force in 2005, allowing indeterminate detention for public protection (IPP). This has led to a considerable increase in prisoners
serving indeterminate sentences. As a consequence there has been a notable rise in the number of parole hearings taking place each year.

We have a group of practitioners (Kate Fortesque, Suki Dhadda and Rebecca Austin) specialising in this fast developing area, and are keen to further expand our involvement in this work. They travel to prisons all over the country for hearings. Chambers recently held a seminar on this subject, accredited by both the SRA and the BSB.

• Prison discipline and adjudication hearings
• Parole hearings
• Licence recall and challenging recall
• Appeals from all rulings in hearings
• Judicial review of refusal to grant parole

We are able to advise on all aspects of procedure and the merits of specific applications either in writing or conference as appropriate.