Prison Adjudications
What is an Adjudication?
An adjudication is a formal disciplinary hearing that takes place inside a prison when a prisoner is accused of breaking the rules. Common charges include assault, possession of prohibited items, disobeying a lawful order, or damaging prison property. The consequences of being found guilty can be serious – they can include loss of privileges, fines, or the addition of extra days onto their sentence. It is important that adjudication proceedings are taken seriously and that clients seek advice as early as possible.
There are two types of adjudications:
- A Governor’s adjudication deals with less serious disciplinary matters and is conducted by a senior member of prison staff.
- An Independent adjudication is led by a District Judge who deals with more serious charges where consequences may be greater, such as additional days of imprisonment.
How we can help
Our team advises clients on the allegations, help them understand what prison rules apply, and assess whether the adjudication has been conducted fairly and in accordance with the correct procedures.
Procedural errors by the prison are not uncommon, and where they have occurred, we will raise them robustly on a clients behalf.
We will also help prepare an account of events and put forward any mitigating factors that the adjudicator should take into account when deciding on any punishment if the adjudication is proven.
Funding and Legal Aid
Legal aid is available for Independent Adjudications, meaning that depending on your financial eligibility we can represent you at no cost to you.
If you have already attended a hearing and feel the outcome was unfair, it may be possible to challenge the result. There are strict time limits that apply so it is imperative that clients contact us as soon as possible.
Legal aid is not available for governor-led adjudications, we offer competitive fixed rates for representation. Please contact our office for more information.
