Criminal Justice
INTRODUCING CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Our Criminal Justice department predominantly deals with victims, witnesses, evidence and case material at different stages during the investigation, court proceedings – and beyond. The work includes carrying out identification procedures, helping to prepare a prosecution case file, speaking to witnesses during the court process and looking after the prosecution evidence
MEET THE TEAMS
VIPER (Video Identification Parade Electronic Recording) is a small team that works with officers to provide the positive identification needed so that they can pass on their case to the Crown Prosecution Service.
The ERP team is responsible for the storage and integrity of any physical or documentary evidence from a trial and returning property to its owner.
This team carries out a wide variety of admin tasks including dealing with postal requisitions, warrants, out of court disposals and inputting data on police systems.
Our Case Builders prepare cases for trial in the Magistrates’ Court and the Crown Court, taking responsibility as disclosure officers during this process
This teams keeps in contact with victims and witnesses throughout court proceedings to help and guide them through the process.
This team looks after the digital and physical storage of dormant case files.
The Restorative Justice team sets up and runs meetings between victims and offenders when requested, and if appropriate.
This unit produces guidance for officers and staff and liaises with other agencies or forces on local and national matters.
Case Study
“As a Witness Care Officer it is my role to look after the victims and witnesses in cases dealt with by Lancashire Constabulary. Being a WCO is a very rewarding job. No two days are the same and you never know what to expect when you answer the phone. The main responsibilities are advising people that they are needed to attend court, arranging the support to help them get to court and guiding people through the Criminal Justice System.
The job can be quite daunting at first because you are dealing with people who have experienced or have witnessed a traumatic event. It can be challenging but the job satisfaction is excellent. At times it is very fast paced and time-critical actions need to be taken. You have to be able to keep several plates spinning at the same time!”
Case Study
I enjoy my role working for Lancashire Police, as since starting around 4 years ago, I have been able to develop and learn new skills. This means I now cover a variety of functions, which means I never have a dull day at work!
It also helps a lot that the colleagues I work with are lovely, very supportive and have a great sense of humour, and so makes coming into work an enjoyment rather than a chore!
The variety of the role really makes it very interesting and I know the work I do is an important part of making sure cases reach court in a timely manner. This is very rewarding to know that even though I am not on the frontline, I make a difference everyday.