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How do I guides

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A selection of easy read guides to help you navigate the criminal justice system in England and Wales.


Am I eligible for legal aid?  Task

This information is about legal aid in England and Wales. Rules for legal aid are different in Scotland and Northern Ireland.


Categorisation of adult male prisoners  Task

Categorising means deciding how much security you will need in prison. Your Category determines the type of prison you will go to.


How are we helping young people to avoid radicalisation?  Task

Radicalisation is the process by which a person becomes supportive of terrorism and forms of extremism which results in terrorism.  


How are we supporting children and young people at risk of, or involved in, gang violence?  Task

A gang can mean different things in different situations. It isn’t illegal to be in a gang unless the gang is involved in illegal activity.


How can I find or locate a prisoner?  Task

Use the Prisoner Location Service to find which prison someone is in.


How can I make a complaint about my probation officer?  Task

Probation means that you’re serving your sentence outside of prison. You could be put on probation because you’re serving a community sentence or you have been released from prison on licence or parole. Parole is where you are able to leave prison before the end of your sentence if you agree to certain conditions.  


How can I request a social care needs assessment?  Task

It is possible to request a needs assessment for yourself, on behalf of someone else, or a hospital can make a referral.


How do I appeal a Crown Court conviction?  Task

How you appeal will depend on whether you went to your trial. It will also depend on whether you were sentenced at a magistrates’ court or a Crown Court.


How do I appeal a magistrates’ court conviction?  Task

How you appeal will depend on whether you went to your trial. It will also depend on whether you were sentenced at a magistrates’ court or a Crown Court. 


How do I get a copy of my criminal record?  Task

This information applies to England and Wales. The process is different in Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland and are applying for a job in the rest of the UK, follow this advice.