Draft amendments to the 2017 Standard Crime Contract are now available to view to take account of new rights to challenge parole decisions.
The ‘reconsideration mechanism’ will come into force on 22 July 2019 and provide a legal right to challenge parole decisions without going through the courts.
In addition to the amended contract documentation we are working on guidance which will be published before the new arrangements take effect.
What are the contract changes?
The amendments we are making confirm that work carried out:
• on behalf of a prisoner during the ‘reconsideration’ process will be covered by criminal legal aid
• connected to applications for ‘reconsideration’ will be a continuation of the existing Parole Board advice and assistance or advocacy assistance matter
Advocacy assistance fee
A separate advocacy assistance fee will be claimable if the Parole Board directs the matter for a reconsideration hearing.
There may be circumstances where clients have not received advice and assistance or advocacy assistance connected to their Parole Board case.
Advice and assistance may still be provided when making applications for reconsideration for such individuals.
Further information
Standard Crime Contract 2017 – draft amendments to chapter 12 of the contract specification now available covering the new rules from 22 July 2019
Parole Board Rules 2019 – to view details of the new rules effective from 22 July 2019