Barristers at AP Berkeley are regularly instructed to represent the rights of prisoners. Members who specialise in this area of law understand the need to represent those serving a prison sentence to defend their rights, challenge wrongdoing, and present coherent and persuasive arguments on behalf of our clients.

We can represent, advise, and pursue legal challenges on a range of prison law matters, including:

– Human Rights Act challenges, including claims for compensation for miscarriages of justice, unlawful detention, assault, negligence, misfeasance, and discrimination on the grounds of race, sex, or disability
– Security categorisation and re-categorisation decisions
– Prison conditions, treatment, and policy
– Access to prison Mother & Baby Units
– Representation before the Parole Board
– Representation before the Independent Adjudicator
– Representation at disciplinary hearings
– Licence conditions
– Release and recall
– Sentence calculation (or miscalculation)
– Conviction and sentence appeals, including out-of-time appeals
– Appeals following CCRC referrals
– Conduct of inquests arising in the prison law context

Our barristers offer a confidential and non-judgmental service. Some prison law cases can attract media attention. Many can involve complex legal arguments, extensive investigations, and engagement with experts. Our barristers work tirelessly to ensure the client is properly advised at every stage of the case. We pride ourselves on evaluating the evidence, presenting complex legal arguments, and presenting the most effective case on behalf of our clients.

Members of AP Berkeley understand that prison law can be an area that requires sensitivity, clarity, and professionalism. We can offer barristers with experience at all levels, regardless of the complexity of the case.