From time to time, a criminal case ends with a wrongful conviction or sentence – there might not have been a crime at all, the wrong person might have been convicted, or the process might have failed so significantly that the conviction is unsafe. Can you find the crucial new evidence or argument that changes things and enables us to send the case back for an appeal?
We have a number of exciting opportunities within the CCRC. Case Review Managers are responsible for analysing and investigating suspected miscarriages of justice. They manage a demanding portfolio of complex criminal cases and draft reasoned recommendations whether to refer a case for a fresh appeal.
The role is intellectually challenging. Case Review Managers need to be analytical, articulate, resilient and proactive. You must be able to juggle competing priorities, planning your work to ensure each case is investigated properly and takes no longer than reasonably necessary to reach a reliable conclusion.
In return, we offer you a unique and independent perspective on the criminal justice system and criminal cases.
As a Case Review Manager you need to see the case from all sides – you must be objective and impartial. You will have the opportunity to examine material from the police, the prosecution, the courts and the defence, as well as records from prisons, the NHS and local authorities. Sometimes you will need to interview applicants and witnesses or instruct experts in a range of forensic and scientific disciplines. At other times you will be dealing with emerging developments in the criminal law.
Our Case Review Managers come from a range of backgrounds – law, policing, forensic science, trading standards, journalism, fire safety – and are based throughout the UK. They work from home, using the latest IT to stay connected and to learn from and support each other.
Key responsibilities to include, but is not limited to:
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Managing a challenging portfolio of complex criminal cases with competing deadlines and priorities, ensuring regular progress of all cases.
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Planning and leading the thorough and timely analysis, investigation and review of criminal convictions and sentences, most of which relate to serious offences prosecuted on indictment in the Crown Courts of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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Requiring and reviewing documents and other material from public and private bodies, including investigation, prosecution, court and defence files and highly sensitive and confidential material such as medical records or intelligence.
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Applying the law and making objective, evidence-based and well-reasoned recommendations to Commissioners as to whether cases should be referred to the appropriate appeal court.
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Drafting accurate, clear and concise Statements of Reasons for decisions whether to refer a case for an appeal, taking account of the communication needs of diverse recipients including unrepresented applicants and the Court of Appeal.
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Communicating effectively with applicants, other stakeholders and colleagues in a remote-working environment.
Does this sound like the role for you?