We represent many people who are accused of committing the most serious of crimes for which they are sometimes remanded in custody during proceedings. If convicted, a prison sentence may also follow at the conclusion of a case.

As a result of this, our clients at times require advice relating to Prison Law matters which is why we have a Prison Law department dedicated to assisting their needs whilst in prison. Such issues that may arise include the following

• Allocation, Categorisation, Status & Sentence Planning
• Prisoners Rights
• Home Detention Curfew (Tagging)
• Applications for Temporary Release
• Applications for Parole
• Parole Board Hearings – oral and written
• Recall to Prison & Applications for Re-Release
• Requests & Complaints Procedure
• Discipline & Adjudications
• Transfers Requests
• Lifer Panels
• Complaints to the Prison Ombudsman
• Judicial Review of Decisions by public bodies

Please note that the above list is not exhaustive. Therefore, if you, your relative or a friend requires any advice and assistance regarding any of the issues whilst in prison or in a Youth Offender’s Institution, please contact us at our offices by telephone or letter. We will be happy to assist you.

Below is a brief description of the most common areas of law a prisoner may need assistance with:

Prisoners Rights

• Although an individual’s liberty has been taken away, he or she will still have basic Human Rights while in prison. These rights will include suitable living conditions, the right to meals according to your religion and/or health, visits from friends and family. It also includes requests to serve prison sentences as close to your family as possible, particularly if you in a Young Offenders’ Institution.

Categorisation

• This is important for everyone beginning a prison sentence because the category a prisoner has been allocated will determine the privileges he/she will be afforded. As a general guide, the more serious the offence the higher the risk is assumed for the prisoner escaping. The consequent increased risk to the public will raise the category for a prisoner. Category A is the highest and Category D is the lowest.

Parole Board Hearings

• These hearings are perhaps the most important for those who have been recalled on licence, serving determinate or indeterminate sentences. It will be at these hearings that a decision will be made as to whether or not a prisoner should be released. For example, if you have been recalled on licence, you may want to make representations against the decision made to recall you. Hearings will take place either orally or in writing depending on individual circumstances.