Simon Corbell has announced his plans for enhanced early pleading:
Courts will be able to impose lower sentences where offenders cooperate to ensure trials are focused on the real issues in dispute, under new legislation passed by the ACT Legislative Assembly today, said Attorney-General, Simon Corbell.
“We know that the inefficient use of time and resources in the criminal justice system contributes to court delays,” Mr Corbell said.
“The Bill that was passed today recognises that defendants and their lawyers have an important role to play in addressing delays in the system.
“Powers introduced in the Crimes (Sentencing) Amendment Bill 2013 will allow a court to impose a reduced sentence where an offender has helped the administration of justice.
“Examples of defendant conduct that may trigger a reduction include pre-trial disclosures, disclosures made during trial or otherwise, admissions, and an early indication of which elements of an offence are an issue.”