Miscarriages of justice: a call for continued research focussing on reforming the investigative process

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider a major cause of miscarriages of justice worldwide, namely the police investigative and interviewing process.

Design/methodology/approach

This phenomenon is examined through the lens of psychiatric and psychological research findings and subsequent recommendations that have made a significant impact in term of changes to legislation, policy, and practice in the UK.

Findings

The paper shows that despite major improvements in this area in the UK there is still no room for complacency, as miscarriages of justice continue to occur both here and worldwide.

Research limitations/implications

This paper calls for researchers to continue to identify the weaknesses in the police investigative and interview process and to propose reform based on their scientific findings.

Originality/value

The paper highlights what remains a somewhat neglected piece of the investigative jigsaw, namely the interviewing of adult victims and witnesses, pinpointing this as an area where transparency and further research is required.

Citation

Poyser, S. and Milne, B. (2011), "Miscarriages of justice: a call for continued research focussing on reforming the investigative process", The British Journal of Forensic Practice, Vol. 13 No. 2, pp. 61-71. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636641111134305