A consultation on the proposed expansion of Out of Court Disposals including Penalty Notices in the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2011

Overview

The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on proposals to divert more cases involving low-level offending behaviour away from the criminal courts. 

The proposals outlined seek to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the criminal justice system by expanding the use of out of court disposals.

Specifically, the consultation invites views on expanding police powers to enable a greater range of offences regarded as low-level offending to be diverted away from the courts, through extending the use of Penalty Notices, improvements to Prosecutorial Fines Legislation and also on a number of related matters such as the penalty value for Penalty Notices.

This consultation explains the background to the current position and decision to consult, summarises the approaches taken in Northern Ireland and other jurisdictions and outlines the various policy proposals.

Why your views matter

Your views can help the Department of Justice to assess whether an expansion of out court disposals could help improve the efficiency of the justice system, providing speedier outcomes for victims, witnesses, offenders and improve overall confidence. These proposals will also help to reduce pressure on courts and the wider criminal justice system.