Identify TWO different parties to a crime - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 17 - 2010 - Paper 1

A method of situational crime prevention is 'target hardening,' which involves making physical changes to a setting to deter crime, such as installing better locks or surveillance cameras.

A method of social crime prevention is 'community programs,' which aim to enhance social cohesion and provide support to at-risk individuals to prevent them from engaging in criminal behavior.

Post-sentencing decisions are vital for several reasons:

1. Rehabilitation: They allow for the assessment of an offender’s progress and the implementation of rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism.

2. Public Safety: These decisions help ensure that the release of offenders is contingent on their demonstrated change and reintegration into society. This reduces the risk to the public.

3. Justice: They provide an opportunity for victims to feel heard and for the justice system to address the harms caused by the crime, ensuring victims understand that justice continues beyond the initial sentencing.

Legal measures within the criminal justice system can be effective in achieving justice for individuals, but their efficacy varies. Factors influencing effectiveness include:

1. Implementation of Sentencing Policies: Well-defined and consistently implemented policies ensure fairness and transparency, thereby enhancing individuals’ trust in the system.

2. Legal Aid Accessibility: Access to legal aid can level the playing field for individuals who may otherwise be disadvantaged in their pursuit of justice.

3. Current Criminal Justice Issue: A pressing issue is the debate surrounding mass incarceration, which raises concerns about disproportionate impacts on minority communities. Addressing this through reforms can lead to a more equitable justice system.

In conclusion, while legal measures can facilitate justice, ongoing reforms and assessments are essential to improve their effectiveness.