Criminal Justice System Explained ================================= **Click below for a free initial consultation with one of our expert Criminal Defence solicitors.** [BOOK MY FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact) ### Can the police stop and search me on the street? --- Police powers to stop and search The police have legislative powers to stop, and in some circumstances search, those individuals they suspect of having committed, or that about to commit, a crime. These powers enable police officers to safeguard communities by taking a... [Find out more](https://vardags.com/law-guide/criminal-justice-system-explained/can-the-police-stop-and-search-me-on-the-street "Can the police stop and search me on the street?") ### Stop and search --- Police officers have the right to stop and question a person at any time. They can search people or their property depending on the situation. A police officer does not need to be in uniform to stop and search a person, though they would need to show a... [Find out more](https://vardags.com/law-guide/criminal-justice-system-explained/stop-and-search "Stop and search") ### What does "released on bail" mean? --- Where bail is granted to a person involved in a criminal investigation or charge, they are allowed to remain out in the public while they are either awaiting further investigations or court appearance, as opposed to being detained in custody. Click below... [Find out more](https://vardags.com/law-guide/criminal-justice-system-explained/what-does-released-on-bail-mean "What does released on bail mean?") ### Whole Life Orders --- What is a Whole Life Order? The Whole Life Order (WLO) is the single most severe punishment in English criminal law. A WLO means that the offender will spend the rest of their life in prison, with no minimum term and no chance of early release. Where a mandatory life... [Find out more](https://vardags.com/law-guide/criminal-justice-system-explained/whole-life-orders "Whole Life Orders") ### The recent expansion of Magistrate's sentencing powers --- As part of the latest response to clear the immense court backlog, it was announced in October 2024 that magistrates in England and Wales are to be given greater sentencing powers. Currently, magistrates may only sentence up to six months imprisonment for a single... [Find out more](https://vardags.com/law-guide/criminal-justice-system-explained/new-magistrate-sentencing-powers "The recent expansion of Magistrate's sentencing powers") ### Where will my criminal case be heard? --- Every criminal case has its first hearing in the magistrates' court. This is regardless of whether it is a minor criminal offence such as a traffic offence, to the most serious of crimes including murder. However, at this first hearing, it will be determined whether or... [Find out more](https://vardags.com/law-guide/criminal-justice-system-explained/where-will-my-criminal-case-be-heard "Where will my criminal case be heard?") The information on this website is intended as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. Vardags do not accept liability for any errors in the information on this website, nor any losses stemming from reliance upon the statements made herein. All articles and pages aim to reflect the legal position at time they were published, and may have been rendered obsolete by subsequent developments in the law. Should you require specialist advice, tailored to your situation, please see how Vardags can help you. What our clients say -------------------- Thanks to Emma and the team for the outstanding handling of my case. Throughout the months of my ongoing case I was kept informed and updated at all times never left wondering what was happening or where I stood. From meeting... Emma I felt instantly that my case was in good (understatement) hands, she has a friendly personal approach as well as so much expertise in the handling of family law cases. I feel so grateful to have had Emma and her team handle my case and for the outcome! Thank you! Emily Calvin What sets Tatiana apart is her genuine compassion and dedication to her clients. She treated me with the utmost respect and kindness, making me feel valued and supported throughout the entire process. She is a true advocate and... an exceptional professional who will go above and beyond to fight for your rights and your family's well-being. Alexandra Gutina In my particular circumstances, I found the Vardags Team to be extraordinarily knowledgeable on Family Case Law, and were masterfully able to finalise this matter to a successful & amenable outcome. Martin Waters Knowledgeable, respectful and empathetic service and team. Michelle Ravden A responsive and helpful service; quick to understand and advise on the issues. Ian Smith I hope you don't need it, but if you do, I would highly recommend Vardags. Xiao Ma