We regularly make both written and oral representations to the Parole Board in respect of applications made not only by prisoners seeking early release but also those persons recalled on licence. We advise on Home Detention Curfew (Tagging) matters and can assist with advice on Appeals against Conviction. We also advise on the prison discipline system and attend adjudication hearings to represent the interests of those prisoners who have been reported for alleged breaches of prison rules. We can give specialist advice to prisoners who are seeking to progress through the prison system and to those seeking transfers throughout the prison estate.
Although the department was only set up in 2007, Switalski's Prison Law team has already made national headlines, representing Brett James, an IPP (indeterminate sentence for public protection) prisoner HMP Doncaster, whose release continues to be delayed because he cannot access courses which will enable him to address his offending behaviour and therefore be considered for parole. In February 2008 the Court of Appeal found that the Secretary of State for Justice had acted unlawfully in denying IPP prisoners access to courses. Whilst Mr James remains in prison following this appeal, the case has prompted widespread debate on the rights of prisoners and calls for a review on the use of IPP sentencing.
Click here to visit our News page, where you can read full details of the case, including links to national news coverage. |
