The criminal case management framework is a guide for operational practitioners on how cases might be managed most effectively and efficiently from pre-charge through to conclusion. It describes case management procedures and the roles and responsibilities of administrative staff operating those procedures, and of the defence. It also sets out the expectations of the judiciary.
A second edition was issued on 21 July 2005 by the Lord Chief Justice, the Attorney General, Lord Falconer and Fiona Mactaggart. The framework was first issued on 21 July 2004 by the Lord Chief Justice, the Attorney General, Lord Falconer and Baroness Scotland.
To be comprehensive, the framework also includes references to new practices for charging and for witness management that are being delivered through the Criminal Case Management Programme (CCMP). CCMP brings together three major elements of criminal justice reform: charging, the effective trial management programme and no witness, no justice. The framework is also closely aligned with the criminal procedure rules on case management that were introduced on 4 April 2005.
If you have any queries about the framework, please contact Sally Arnold at the Office for Criminal Justice Reform (OCJR):