I miss the Sweatbox

Oh how I miss the “Sweatbox”

After being held by the police and awaiting a hearing, a weekly appearance before the Magistrates is a lifeline for prisoners.

It may mean the claustrophobic “sweatbox” and endless hanging around, but it is a one opportunity to appear in open court and be visible to a judge, family, the public and press.

Much police misconduct, (“slipping on the steps”) has been revealed in this way, and is a salutary reminder for officers to treat prisoners strictly in accordance with the law.

The Government plan to sweep this away by having virtual magistrates’ courts hearings, whereby the prisoner never leaves the police station.

To their credit some solicitors are boycotting this pilot scheme I would like to urge all lawyers to do the same.

A sweatbox is no fun, but it remains an important lifeline to somebody in this vulnerable position, guilty or not.

If you need a criminal lawyer, you know where to come.