DPP Essay

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A void was identified in the criminal justice system, for an independent organisation to oversee the prosecution of offences. The previous system proved to be inconsistent as it allowed police forces to investigate and prosecute cases independently. The Royal Commission on Criminal Procedure created CPS through the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985. As head of the CPS, the DPP’s primary role is to ensure a fair and just legal process by deciding whether to take over an institute proceeding in accordance with the prosecution code. The DPP’s policies are continuously challenged and adapted when needed, as evidenced by the Supreme Court in the case R (Nicklinson) v Ministry of Justice [2014]. It began an avalanche of discussion around Section 2(4) of the Suicide Act 1961 and the DPP’s current policy of the prosecution of persons, which forced courts to address the controversy within current legislation. The DPP is primarily known for its power to take over or withdraw a case, but the DPP’s office also supports victims or prosecution witnesses involved in the case, by gifting them with information and assistance in navigating the legal system. The DPP independently deliberates over evidence and decides the appropriate charge for cases they take on, which are commonly more complex or involve serious issues. The DPP will take on a case that has already begun the prosecution process, and present it in court. In the …show more content…

His request stemmed from his desire to end his life, and apart from self-starvation, his only way to accomplish this is to travel to Switzerland, where he would be enabled to do so through the Dignitas service. Unable to travel to Zurich himself, or solely complete any of the necessary qualifications to participate, Martin asked the Court to improve the law to allow for a carer to support him in his project

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