Decision In A Court Case...

[Olliebaby]

I was reading an article in the papers recently and I felt strongly about it and the decision the judge had made. Obviously I know I am not going to change the decision by doing this BUT I was wondering, if I know the Judges name etc, is it possible to write to them with my thoughts on the matter? Would it even be read by him? is it possible I would receive a reply? I do feel really strongly about this and would therefore just like to have my say on it or would you normally go to the local MP? I have no idea how these things work as I am not a serial complainer I just want to get my points accross about our ridiculous "justice" system

[sara3]

you can write to a judge via the court, but don't expect any more than a polite response. are you aware of the sentencing guidelines for the case is question?

have you considered becoming a magistrate?

[sara3]

*in question

[Olliebaby]

Hi Sara, yes it stated what the sentencing should have been and the reasons it wasnt passed but I just wanted to put my thoughts accross. I know im not anybody important and I am not looking to make a big thing of it, I just wondered if he would actually read my letter and the chance of a reply. Thanks for your answer..

[EcclesCake]

Has there been an appeal? If not, it might suggest that those in possession of all of the facts accept the judgement.

Newspapers do like to put their own spin on reporting.

[Olliebaby]

Hi Ecclescake, not as far as I am aware but the decision was only passed in the last couple of days.

I just don't understand how our system here works, there was video evidence and he pleaded guilty to all the offences but he was let off because he had a job and showed remorse. Grrr. I should stop reading these things because I guess nothing will change.

[EcclesCake]

Not knowing the details of the case, I just thought it was something to consider.

Give a letter a go, it's just the cost of a stamp and you may well get a reply.

[hc4361]

Send a copy to your MP as well.

[Olliebaby]

Thanks everyone for your thoughts

[tonywiltshire]

Do remember Ollie that the Judge has heard all the evidence you have only read a newspaper report. I assume the case you refer to is criminal and in the crown court where the decision on guilt was taken by the jury not the Judge who will have 10 years’ experience under the meaning of S71 of the Courts and legal services act 1990 juries are seldom used in civil cases but the decisions of the court are generally fair.
The system of justice used in both criminal and civil matters is not infallible but it is in my view fairly reliable and usually provides the correct outcome, but perhaps you believe there are ways it can be improved given the financial restriction. Sara asks if you have considered becoming a magistrate, who deal with most cases, which I think is worthy of consideration. Do write your letter if you feel strongly over something, try to keep your letter as short as possible and be patient, I think it will be read and you may even get a reply.

[Buenchico]

For some offences, anyone can ask for a sentence to be reviewed on the grounds that it appears to be too lenient:
https://www.gov.uk/complain-about-low-crown-court-sentence

[Peter Pedant]

Yes you can write there is nothing in Law against that
(the case had been decided)

and Judges as you say are Very Wise People

so I think he would like that.

or to the Lord Chancellor - Dept Joostees, wherever it is now

[used to be the dept of the Lord Chancellor]


I write to one old fool regularly who didnt believe me (he thought I was lying: I was not) and did believe the lawyer ( who was lying and knew evidence had not been disclosed) so what happened when the truth came out. Oh, nothing....Judges are so very very wise you see - it wouldnt have made a difference. The judge has been sidelined in Employment tribunals where he cant do much harm.....