Criminal justice is the system through which society identifies, prosecutes, and punishes criminal behaviour while attempting to prevent crime and rehabilitate offenders.
The jurisdiction of the courts in England and Wales refers to the legal authority or power that they have to hear and determine certain types of legal cases. The jurisdiction of the courts is determined by a combination of legislation, legal precedent, and court rules.
In England and Wales, there are several levels of courts with varying degrees of jurisdiction. These include:
Magistrates’ Courts: These are the lowest level of courts in England and Wales and they have jurisdiction over a wide range of criminal offenses, such as minor assaults, theft, and driving offenses. They also have limited jurisdiction in civil cases, such as small claims and some family law matters.
County Courts: These courts have jurisdiction over a wider range of civil cases, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, and landlord-tenant disputes. They also have some limited jurisdiction in family law matters, such as divorce and child custody.
Crown Court: This court has jurisdiction over the most serious criminal offenses, such as murder, rape, and drug trafficking. It also has some limited jurisdiction over civil cases.
High Court: This is the highest level of court in England and Wales, and it has jurisdiction over the most complex civil and criminal cases. The High Court has several divisions, including the Family Division, the Chancery Division, and the King’s Bench Division.
The Supreme Court: This is the final court of appeal in the UK for civil cases, and for criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland
In addition to these courts, there are also specialist courts in England and Wales, such as the Employment Tribunal, the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, and the Mental Health Tribunal, which have jurisdiction over specific areas of law.
It is important to understand the jurisdiction of the courts in England and Wales when bringing a legal case, as it determines which court has the power to hear and determine your case. It is advisable to seek legal advice if you are unsure about which court has jurisdiction over your case.
Find contact details and information on courts and tribunals in England and Wales, and some non-devolved tribunals in Scotland.
Drugs are being openly sold on the streets by drug dealers with seemingly little to no action being taken by the Police to deal with this. The streets also stink of weed.
I gave up ringing 101 and attending local policing meetings. It’s pointless the police seem more than happy for a large group of men to openly deal on the street every single day of the week and have them and their customers urinating and defecating in the streets.
Drug misuse harms the health and wellbeing of many people. There are a number of different criminal offences which should restrict the supply and use of harmful substances.
It is illegal to possess, supply and produce controlled drugs. It is also illegal to import or export drugs, or to allow your premises to be used for drug production.
The legal restrictions placed on the use of controlled drugs are aimed at preventing drug misuse. The principal offences relating to the misuse of controlled drugs are contained in the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (“the Act”) and most of the offences dealt with in this guidance are created by the Act. The primary objective of the Act is the control of the use and distribution of dangerous and harmful drugs. The Act classifies the drugs according to their relative degree of overall harm from misuse.
Controlled drugs fall into three different categories, Class A, B or C, according to their danger or how harmful they are. The sentences for drug offences are different for each class of drugs. Class A drugs are the most harmful, and will lead to a greater sentence.
A drug dealer is an individual who illegally sells or distributes drugs. These drugs can range from illegal substances like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or marijuana (in places where it’s not legally regulated) to prescription medications that are sold without a prescription or for non-medical use.
The Statute of Limitations establishes time limits within which legal actions can be brought against individuals or entities for various offenses. There is no time limit for prosecution in England and Wales for drug dealing offences.
On Sunday 22nd September 2024 @ 17:40 whilst I was on the Walworth Road/Camberwell Road in SE17 close to the 100% Holy Café, I witnessed 3 drug deals being carried out brazenly in the street. I later witnessed another drug deal in a local pub by one of the same individuals.
Several Met Police cars drove past (all being driven one handed) and I attempted to flag one down. The officer in passenger seat made eye contact but they decided to ignore me. I assume the officers were coming from Walworth Police Station 12-28 Manor Place SE17 3RL.
I regularly travel through South London and I regularly see drug deals on the streets. I never see any Met Police officers on foot patrol. Met Police patrol cars just drive by seemingly oblivious to crimes being committed on the streets.
If you’re concerned about drug-related crime in your area or think someone may be a victim of drug exploitation, please call us on 101.
If it’s an emergency, please call 999. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service 18000. Or text us on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service
I live in Crawley West Sussex and I regularly see drug deals on the streets. I never see any Sussex Police officers on foot patrol (anytime) or in police cars at night.
The suspects are usually illegally riding a speed modified e-scooter or e-bikes and have their face covered. Home delivery of drugs by car also seems very popular in some parts of town.
Chief Superintendent Imran Asghar of Sussex Police was appointed in March 2024 and is responsible for Crawley & Mid-Sussex. On X he said that he is looking forward to working with officers/staff & communities in this region.
Superintendent Asghar EB821 can be contacted by email [email protected]. Maybe he would like to do something positive about drug crime on his “manor” ?
If you’re concerned about drug-related crime in your area or think someone may be a victim of drug exploitation, please call us on 101.
If it’s an emergency, please call 999. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service 18000. Or text us on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service
Drugs are being openly sold on the streets by dealers, in my opinion, with seemingly little to no action being taken by the Police (Met and Sussex) to deal with this. Is open drug dealing an issue in your area ? #Policehttps://t.co/DMblhIMXDs
Why did Sussex Police wait 9 days to inform the public ?Surely Sussex Police have a duty to let Sussex residents know that their Chief Constable has retired ?Not very transparent and almost as if the Police have something to hide.
In the same document pack, there is a copy of the letter Jo Shiner wrote to the Sussex PCC on the 14th June 2024. The Sussex PCC replied on the 25th June 2024. The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 requires a transparent and open process. Why did the PCC stay quiet until the 10th September 2024 ?
I am still perplexed how the Chief Constable of Sussex Police can retire (and be rehired next month by the PCC), an Acting Chief Constable be appointed and the people of Sussex (and the UK) were not told.
Confirmation Hearing for the Proposed Chief Constable of Sussex Police (Pages 37 – 58)
On 10 September, the Panel was formally notified of the proposal of Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner to appoint a Chief Constable of Sussex Police. The attached report by the Clerk to the Panel provides details of the Panel’s role in the confirmation hearing for the proposed appointment of the Chief Constable of Sussex Police. The appendices and annexes to the report comprise information from the Police and Crime Commissioner regarding the proposed appointment. The Panel is to ask the candidate questions relating to their professional competence and personal independence.
On the 1st October 2024 Jo Shiner was reappointed as the Chief Constable of Sussex Police until 2027 after a short break under the Retire and Rejoin scheme.
The latest HMICFRS inspection of Sussex Police PEEL 2021/22 was published on the 13th April 2023 ? Should we continue to reward failure ? Is Jo Shiner the best person Sussex Police have for the job ?
“This way she can start claiming her pension and, on her return get her full salary without any pension deductions. Nice work if you can get it. If she has retired the job needs to go through the correct selection process.”
There was no announcement on the Sussex Police News website…..however the reason for the BBC news article and announcement may become clear. ⬇
An email was sent to the Sussex Police Media Team on Monday 9th September in relation to a Facebook post about gifts of Samosa’s to Crawley Police. The email also asked questions about the Senior Leadership including Chief Constable Jo Shiner missing from the Sussex Police website……
From: Dom Watts Sent: Monday, September 9, 2024 10:06 AM To:[email protected] Cc:[email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Crawley Police and the Gifts, Gratuities and Hospitality Policy – Facebook Samosa Gifts
Dear Sussex Police Media Team
(cc Katy Bourne Sussex PCC and Sussex Police PSD)
I am a citizen journalist at the Ministry of Injustice website and also a Crawley resident. I am currently writing an article in response to a post made by Crawley Police on their Facebook page (As below) on Friday 6th September 2024 about gifts of Samosa’s to the Police on World Samosa Day (5th September 2024).
This Facebook post is another terrible social media post by Crawley Police, and is not a great optic for the Police at a time of greater scrutiny in light of public claims of two tier policing.
1.3 As a guiding principle, Police Officers, Special Constables and Police Staff must not accept the offer of any gift, gratuity, favour or hospitality without prior approval from the JFVU. This allows an independent assessment of any potential compromise or conflict of interest.
1.4 Offers of a gift, gratuity or hospitality vary widely and could range from a reasonable display of gratitude and common courtesy, which does not breach integrity of any party, through to criminal offences such as a breach of the Bribery Act 2010 (legislation.gov.uk)
3.1 All gifts, gratuities and hospitality require approval from the JFVU before they can be accepted. Police Officers, Special Constables and Police Staff must complete an application form as soon as possible or within a maximum of 7 days from the receipt of the gift, gratuity or prior to any hospitality offered. The gift, gratuity or hospitality must remain with the applicant’s line manager, until approval has been given from the JFVU.
4.3 The Gift, Gratuity and Hospitality policy is intended to manage low value items only and as a guide an upper limit of £20 is considered appropriate.
Could you please provide any comments on the following please :-
Was advice Sought from the Joint Force Vetting Unit (JFVU) in accepting these gifts ?
Have these gifts been recorded by the JFVU ?
Did Superintendent Nick Dias or Chief Inspector Will Keating-Jones accept the gifts ? Was it another officer ?
Does the photo show all the samosa’s that were gifted ? How many Samosa’s were gifted ?
Was the health and safety of the Front Line officers considered when accepting these gifts ?
What is the benefit to policing in accepting these gifts ?
Do senior officers in Sussex Police regularly take time away from policing to accept freebies and photo opportunities ?
Could you please arrange for this page to be updated along with any missing bio’s. Can you please share any publicity photos of these senior officers ?
@[email protected] If any offences have been committed by Superintendent Nick Dias, Chief Inspector Will Keating-Jones or any other officers, could you please furnish me with a crime number and PSD reference.
To be clear, I am not a racist or from the far right. My aunt is of Asian descent and makes brilliant Samosa’s !
Thanks for your time and I look forward to your response.
Regards
Email to Sussex Police Media Team 9th September 2024
Is news about gifts of Samosa’s more important to the public than the retirement of the Chief Constable ?
An email response was received from Sussex Police Media Team……..
From: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, September 9, 2024 12:19 PM To: Dom Watts Cc:[email protected]; PSD Main <[email protected]> Subject: RE: Crawley Police and the Gifts, Gratuities and Hospitality Policy – Facebook Samosa Gifts
Good afternoon Dom,
Thank you for your email. I hope this gives some clarification regarding the samosas which were received at Crawley police station from Ashwin Soni, Director of Diverse Crawley.
Samosas were delivered to police and other emergency services by Ashwin to help celebrate World Samosa Day.
Ashwin is a valued member of the community as well as a member of multiple independent advisory groups who work closely with Sussex Police.
This kind gesture was gratefully received by Superintendent Nick Dias and Chief Inspector Will Keating-Jones, who is the Hindu Faith lead for Sussex Police, as part of their ongoing engagements with the local community and stakeholders, a core part of senior officers’ duties.
The gift of around 40 samosas was inputted on the Gifts Register and forwarded to vetting for awareness.
Thank you for highlighting information on our website.
Will Keating-Jones was promoted to Chief Inspector, which will be reflected on the website. Superintendent Imran Asghar’s rank is correct.
In relation to the Chief Constable, please can I direct your request to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Sussex?
I hope this answers any questions you may have. If you require any more information, please do let me know.
Many thanks
Email response from Sussex Police Media Team 9th September 2024
A follow up email was sent to the Sussex Police Media Team and the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner
From: Dom Watts Sent: Tuesday, September 10, 2024 10:08 AM To: <[email protected]>; [email protected] Subject: RE: Crawley Police and the Gifts, Gratuities and Hospitality Policy – Facebook Samosa Gifts Importance: High
Good Morning xxx
Many thanks for your speedy reply, for clarifying the correct procedure was followed in relation to the “gifts” and for updating the Sussex Police Senior Leadership page.
I see that the reason for your response “In relation to the Chief Constable, please can I direct your request to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Sussex?”
was answered by the BBC @ 1.32pm the same day
@[email protected] Why did Sussex Police wait 9 days to inform the public ? Surely Sussex Police have a duty to let Sussex residents know that their Chief Constable has retired ? Not very transparent and almost as if the Police have something to hide. Could you please reply to me separately about this ?
Jo Shiner, Sussex Police Chief Constable, formally retired on the 31st August 2024 but will return in a month !
Why did Sussex Police wait 9 days to inform the public ? Not very transparent and almost as if the Police have something to hide? #Policehttps://t.co/8jZt4TcA49
The Sussex Police and Crime Panel met on Friday 27 September 2024 (10.30am start) at County Hall, Lewes. The deadline for residents to submit written questions is 12 noon on Friday 13 September 2024…..
From: Dom Watts Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2024 9:16 AM To:[email protected] Subject: Written questions to the Sussex PCP Meeting 27th September 2024
Dear Sussex Police and Crime Panel
The deadline for residents to submit written questions is 12 noon on Friday 13 September 2024.
I am perplexed how the Chief Constable of Sussex Police can retire (and be rehired next month by the PCC), an Acting Chief Constable be appointed and the people of Sussex (and the UK) were not told.
Why did Sussex Police wait 9 days to inform the public via the BBC ? Surely Sussex Police have a duty to let Sussex residents know that their Chief Constable has retired ?
Is there something to hide ? Not very transparent and almost as if the PCC/Police have something to hide.
My questions to the Sussex PCP have been accepted….
From: Ninesh Edwards <[email protected]> On Behalf Of Police Crime Panel Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2024 3:46 PM To: Dom Watts Cc: Tiffany Taylor ; Jack Bacon Subject: Your written Question
Hello again Dominic,
I can confirm that your question(s) have been accepted as written questions for the meeting on 27 September.
The PCC’s written response will be published just before the meeting (available via the link given in 3. below) and the members of the Panel can ask supplementary questions at the meeting, having read the Commissioner’s response.
You can follow the meeting live on 27 September via the webcast here: https://eastsussex.public-i.tv/core/portal/home. The meeting is being held in public, but the public can only observe (i.e. not participate). The meeting will be in Lewes, East Sussex, and will start at 10:30.
The papers for the meeting will be published here (on or around 19 September): https://sussexpcp.gov.uk/meetings/. As stated above, the report for the “Questions for the Commissioner” item will be updated on the morning of the meeting, to include the PCC’s written responses.
Jo Shiner Biography before Appointment as Chief Constable
Jo Shiner joined Sussex Police as Deputy Chief Constable at the end of 2018. She started her policing career in Norfolk in 1993, serving up to the rank of Chief Superintendent before transferring on promotion to Kent as Assistant Chief Constable in 2014.
Jo’s career in the police spans 28 years, during which time she has undertaken a wide variety of roles. These have predominantly been operational, both in uniform and within the Child and Adult Protection Unit, CID and as a firearms, public order and critical incident commander.
As Deputy Chief Constable, Jo is responsible for the smooth and effective running of Sussex Police, and delivering the services that the communities deserve. As part of this she is passionate about supporting local groups and addressing issues that really matter to our communities.
In January 2020 she took over the NPCC National Lead for the policing of Children and Young People. She is also the NPCC National Lead for police fitness.
Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) are directly elected politicians and are responsible for overseeing the non-operational aspects of policing. Their journey began in 2012 when they replaced the old police authorities. Since then, it is said that PCCs have been diligently working to secure an “efficient and effective” police force for their respective areas.
In England and Wales, PCCs are elected by the public to hold the police force to account on their behalf. PCCs aim to cut crime and deliver an effective and efficient police service within their police force area. Police and Crime Commissioners: make sure the police force budget is spent effectively.
Election: PCCs are elected by the public. On the 2nd May 2024, elections took place for 37 police and crime commissioners (PCCs) who set policing priorities and hold to account police forces across most of England and Wales. Police & Crime Commissioner elections are held every 4 years.
Coverage: They represent every police force area in England and Wales, except for London, Greater Manchester, and West Yorkshire (where elected mayors hold these powers). Different arrangements exist in the City of London. Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate policing structures due to devolution. Police and crime commissioners for each police area listed in Schedule 1 to the Police Act 1996 (police areas outside London).
The Powers and Functions of PCCs
Appointing and Holding to Account:
PCCs appoint and, if necessary, dismiss the chief constable. This role is critical for maintaining effective leadership within the police force.
They hold the chief constable accountable for delivering the police and crime plan, which outlines local policing priorities.
Setting Objectives and Budgets:
PCCs set the police and crime objectives for their area through a comprehensive plan.
They also determine the force budget and decide on the precept which is a council tax charge specifically for policing.
Collaboration and Coordination:
PCCs bring together various community safety and criminal justice partners to ensure that local priorities are aligned.
While they’re not responsible for operational policing (that remains with chief constables), they play a crucial role in coordinating efforts.
Operational Independence:
The relationship between PCCs and chief constables is guided by the Policing Protocol Order 2011. It emphasizes safeguarding operational independence while allowing PCCs to fulfil their statutory roles.
Additionally, the Policing and Crime Act 2017 introduced the possibility for PCCs to take on responsibility for fire and rescue governance, becoming a police, fire, and crime commissioner (PFCC).
secure an efficient and effective police for their area
appoint the Chief Constable, hold them to account, and if necessary dismiss them
set the police and crime objectives for their area through a police and crime plan
set the force budget and determine the precept [the amount people pay through council tax for policing]
contribute to the national and international policing capabilities set out by the Home Secretary
bring together community safety and criminal justice partners to make sure local priorities are joined up.
How to complain about a Police and Crime Commissioner
To complain about your Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), PFCC, mayor or deputy mayor for policing and crime, contact your local police and crime panel. Your local council will provide contact details.
Each police force area has a Police and Crime Panel to provide checks and balances in relation to the performance of the Police and Crime Commissioner. The role of the Panel is to scrutinise the performance of the Commissioner and ensure transparency.
The Panel provides checks and balances in relation to the performance of the PCC. The Panel does not scrutinise the Chief Constable – it scrutinises the PCC’s exercise of their statutory functions. While the Panel is there to challenge the PCC, it must also exercise its functions with a view to supporting the effective exercise of the PCC’s functions. This includes :-
(a) the power of veto (outside the Metropolitan Police District), by a two-thirds majority of the total Panel membership, over the level of the PCC’s proposed precept;
(b) the power of veto (outside the Metropolitan Police District), by a two-thirds majority of the total Panel membership, over the PCC’s proposed candidate for Chief Constable;
(d) the power to review the draft Plan and make recommendations to the PCC who must have regard to them;
(e) the power to review the PCC’s Annual Report and make reports and recommendations at a public meeting, which the PCC must attend;
(f) the power to require relevant reports and information in the PCC’s possession (except those which are operationally sensitive) to enable them to fulfil their statutory obligations;
(g) the power to require the PCC to attend the Panel to answer questions;
(h) the power (outside the Metropolitan Police District) to appoint an acting Police and Crime Commissioner where the incumbent PCC is incapacitated, resigns or is disqualified, and
(i) responsibility for complaints about a PCC, although serious complaints and conduct matters must be passed to the IOPC in line with legislation.
A Police and Crime Panel does not have the power to examine the decisions reached by the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and/or their office in respect of such reviews, and is not the correct body of recourse to challenge such decisions made the PCC and/or their office. Such decisions can be subject to judicial review.
A Google Search for The Secret Barrister shows that they are an Award-winning Sunday Times No.1 bestselling author much lauded by the public and legal profession.
Seems a bit odd that the Bar Standards Board don’t think the Secret Barrister is a Barrister !
If the Secret Barrister is not a Barrister then surely this should be of concern to the Bar Standards Board ? This would also be an offence under the Legal Services Act 2007 ?
It is highly likely that The Bar Standards Board know :-
The identity of the Secret Barrister
That the Secret Barrister is a barrister regulated by the Bar Standards Board
The Secret Barrister is, contrary to the email from the Bar Standards Board Contact and Assessment Team, most definitely identifiable and should be subject to proper investigation in the public interest.
From: BSB Contact Us <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, August 13, 2024 2:48 PM To: Dom Watts Subject: RE: Reporting a concerns about a practising barrister (The Secret Barrister) 2024/1910
Dear Mr Watts
Thank you for your email and for sharing your concerns with us.
However, we are only able to deal with matters about a barrister that is identifiable, and it is the reporter’s responsibility to provide us with the name. It is possible the person may not even be a barrister; therefore, we will not be able to assess this matter further and the case is now closed in our system. If you want to make a report in the future, you will need to provide us with the name of the barrister and evidence of your concern.
We are sorry that we are unable to help at this time.
The Secret Barrister is an anonymous junior barrister practicing criminal law in England and Wales. Through a series of books and a popular blog, this enigmatic figure has shed light on the intricacies and flaws of the UK’s legal system, making complex legal issues accessible to the general public.
The identity of The Secret Barrister remains unknown to the public, but everyone loves a good mystery and a healthy whodunnit !
Despite various speculations and attempts to uncover their identity, they have successfully maintained their anonymity until now. The Secret Barrister was described as a junior barrister specialising in criminal law, aged between 30 and 40, and not an Oxbridge graduate. They have also been described as a lefty lawyer.
The term moron is now widely accepted as being dated and offensive.
A person affected with mild intellectual disability
The terms idiot, imbecile, moron, and their derivatives were formerly used as technical descriptors in medical, educational, and regulatory contexts. These uses were broadly rejected by the close of the 20th century and are now considered offensive.
“Name calling” is also widely considered to be a form of bullying and harassment. I believe it’s also illegal !
Hardly the behaviour of a Barrister of England and Wales. It displays wanton arrogance and a rules don’t apply to me attitude.
The Secret Barrister may have friends in high places and be an expert in law, however no one is above the law.Thanks for reminding me about free speech.
The Secret Barrister has been reported to the Bar Standards Board to investigate :-
You can also report behaviour by a barrister to us even if you were not their client. For example, you can make a report about barristers who may be:
……behaving in a way which is likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public places in them or in the profession – for example if they are bullying or harassing someone or using racist, sexist, or otherwise seriously offensive language either in person or on social media.
Barrister Alan Robertshaw discusses Barristers and behaviour on Social Media
From: Dom Watts Sent: Thursday, August 8, 2024 10:25 AM To:[email protected] Subject: Reporting a concerns about a practising barrister (The Secret Barrister) Importance: High
Dear Bar Standards Board
I wish to report a barrister ( The Secret Barrister) for a breach of CD5 and behaving in a way which is likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public places in them or in the profession –bullying / harassing someone using seriously offensive language either in person or on social media.
I am unable to use your online reporting form as I do not have the details for The Secret Barrister. I’m sure you know who they are !
Can you confirm that they are a practising barrister and regulated by you ?
I believe that sending my concern by email is allowed by your Reasonable Adjustments Policy. If not, could you please provide their full name and chambers so I can complete your online form ?
Regards
Email to the Bar Standards Board with concerns about The Secret Barrister
The Secret Barrister on YouTube
The Secret Barrister: is it only the rich who can afford to defend themselves?
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Books by The Secret Barrister
The Secret Barrister: Stories of the Law and How It’s Broken (2018)
This debut book provides a critical first-hand account of the criminal justice system in England and Wales. It highlights the systemic issues and underfunding that plague the legal system, using real-life cases to illustrate these points.
Fake Law: The Truth About Justice in an Age of Lies (2020)
In this follow-up, The Secret Barrister tackles the misinformation and myths surrounding the legal system. The book debunks common misconceptions and explains how these falsehoods can harm justice and society.
Nothing But The Truth: Stories of Crime, Guilt and the Loss of Innocence (2022)
This memoir tracks the author’s journey from a novice barrister to a celebrated legal commentator. It combines personal anecdotes with broader reflections on the state of the legal profession and the justice system.
Themes and Impact
The Secret Barrister’s works are known for their candid and often critical perspective on the legal system. Key themes include:
Access to Justice: Highlighting the barriers that prevent ordinary people from accessing legal representation.
Legal Aid Cuts: Criticizing the impact of funding cuts on the quality of legal defense available to defendants.
Systemic Failures: Exposing the daily failures within the courts that undermine justice.
Online Presence and Resources
The Secret Barrister also maintains a blog and an active X presence, where they continue to discuss legal issues and engage with the public. Here are some useful links:
The Secret Barrister has played a crucial role in demystifying the legal system for the public. Through their books and online presence, they continue to advocate for a fairer, more transparent justice system. Whether you’re a legal professional or simply interested in understanding how the law works, The Secret Barrister’s insights are invaluable.
The BlackBeltBarrister YouTube channel provides free legal guidance and explains the different aspects of law, legal principles, and procedures. As of the 26th January 2026, the Black Belt Barrister has 905k subscribers and 2.6k videos.
The BlackBelt Barrister should not be confused with the Secret Barrister.
Black Belt Barrister is not a replacement for formal legal advice but it is highly informative and may help you to understand more about the law.
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Officers Need to Know the Law!
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I'm a Barrister of England and Wales.
Videos for educational guidance only, Always seek advice before taking action. Videos on my channel are not legal advice and should not be taken as such. I accept no liability for any reliance placed upon the content of these videos or references, therein. Description may contain affiliate or sponsored links, for which we may receive commissions or payment.Show More
Legal aid is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to individuals who cannot afford legal representation in court. In the United Kingdom, legal aid is administered by the Legal Aid Agency, which is an executive agency of the Ministry of Justice.
Legal aid in the UK is available for both criminal and civil cases. Criminal legal aid is available for individuals who are facing criminal charges and cannot afford to pay for legal representation. Civil legal aid is available for a wide range of cases, including family law, housing, immigration, and employment law.
In order to be eligible for legal aid, an individual must meet certain criteria.
You could for example get legal aid if:
you or your family are at risk of abuse or serious harm, for example domestic violence or forced marriage
you’re at risk of homelessness or losing your home
you’ve been accused of a crime, face prison or detention
Your legal adviser or family mediator will apply for legal aid on your behalf. If you qualify, the government will pay their costs directly.
Once an individual has been granted legal aid, they will be assigned a solicitor who will represent them in court. The solicitor will be responsible for preparing their case, representing them in court, and negotiating settlements or plea bargains on their behalf.
However, it is worth noting that the availability of legal aid in the UK has been significantly reduced in recent years due to funding cuts. This means that many individuals who would have previously been eligible for legal aid may no longer be able to access it. In addition, the scope of civil legal aid has been narrowed, with many areas of law no longer covered by the program.
Despite these challenges, legal aid remains an important tool for ensuring that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial circumstances. It provides crucial support for those who cannot afford legal representation, and helps to ensure that the justice system is fair and equitable for all.
The Perjury Act 1911 is an Act of Parliament in the United Kingdom that sets out the offence of perjury. Perjury is the act of giving false evidence under oath in a court of law or in any legal proceeding.
The Perjury Act 1911 provides that any person who, in any judicial proceeding, wilfully makes a false statement under oath, or produces any false document or thing, shall be guilty of perjury. The Act also sets out the punishment for perjury, which is imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years.
The Act also provides for the offence of subornation of perjury, which is the act of inducing another person to commit perjury. Anyone who is found guilty of subornation of perjury can also be punished with imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years.
The Perjury Act 1911 is an important piece of legislation that helps to ensure the integrity of the legal system by deterring people from giving false evidence or inducing others to do so. It is still in force today and continues to be used to prosecute those who commit perjury in legal proceedings in the United Kingdom.
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