Domestic Laws Governing Post-Pandemic Crime and Criminal Justice

Abstract

In addition to reported increases in offending rates for some offences during the COVID-19 pandemic, such those involving online victimisation and domestic violence, criminal justice systems have had to deal with specific offences enacted in response to public health concerns. Restrictions on personal movement and international travel, and prevention measures such as mandated mask-wearing, are enforced through fines and imprisonment. The conduct of legal proceedings has also been affected, with an increased use of remote hearings, technological forms of document submission and judge-alone hearings. Bail, trial and sentencing procedures have all been modified, potentially lasting beyond the pandemic. Show more