Justice at Gunpoint? Why Forcing Defendants To Attend Court Is A Slippery Slope

The debate over whether defendants should be forced to attend their sentencing has intensified following the refusal of the notorious serial killer, Lucy Letby, and the killers of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel. While there’s a strong public sentiment supporting mandatory court attendance for sentencing, especially in heinous crimes, concerns arise over the potential for this to infringe on human rights and disrupt court proceedings. It’s essential to ensure that the pursuit of justice does not compromise the foundational principles of human rights and liberties, even for those deemed the most reprehensible in society.

“How Can You Defend Criminals?” – The Question Asked Of Every Lawyer

The presumption of innocence is a foundational principle in justice systems, with every individual deemed innocent until proven guilty. Legal representation is crucial in ensuring fairness, preventing wrongful convictions, and upholding the integrity of the legal process, emphasising that justice should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or means.

Legal Aid In Context

This article discusses the importance of legal aid and how it works in the UK. Providing fair legal representation to all individuals, regardless of their past or the nature of the crime they are accused of, is essential for ensuring a just legal system.