The Growing Acknowledgement of Wrongful Conviction

The Australian Response within an International Context

Authors

  • Lynne Weathered Griffith University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15209/vulj.v3i1.27

Abstract

The wrongful conviction of innocent people is being acknowledged in an increasing number of countries around the world. The problem of wrongful conviction is now framed as an international human rights issue. More attention is being given to whether criminal justice systems are providing sufficient measures for the effective review and rectification of wrongful convictions and whether international obligations in that regard are being met. England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Norway, Canada and the United States have substantial new mechanisms in place to better identify and correct wrongful convictions but Australia has been slower to respond. While some Australian states have introduced reforms such as DNA innocence testing and a new appeal avenue, many issues remain as highlighted in recent debates as to whether Australia should establish a Criminal Cases Review Commission.

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Published

18-12-2013

How to Cite

Weathered , L. (2013) “The Growing Acknowledgement of Wrongful Conviction: The Australian Response within an International Context”, Victoria University Law and Justice Journal. Melbourne, Australia, 3(1), pp. 69–82. doi: 10.15209/vulj.v3i1.27.

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2013)

Section

Article

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