Llewelyn Curlewis is the Chairperson. The so-called "Criminal Review Project" with its 7 point plan regarding the proposed amendments is enjoying much attention. Over-crowded prisons received much attention in October 2008. The prisons department reported that there are approximately 47 000 pre-trial prisoners in prison of which 10 000 are being detained on less than a R1 000,00 bail.
There is over a hundred of the Association's members participating in this project in conjunction with the Department of Justice. Prison visitations took place during the past year and reports were handed over to the Minister of Correctional Services. A project to ensure that the correct methods of how attorneys should conduct themselves during prison visitations with consideration to the Human Rights element is under way.
Discussions are being held with the Legal Aid Board. It appears that more than 80% of all criminal cases are being dealt with through them. The proposed Pro Bona system is being implemented and a Press Statement will be following shortly. Members have intimated that they will bring their side.
Certain of the Evidence Act is under discussion. Llewelyn is representing the Law Society of the Northern Provinces and Law Society of South Africa in these discussions. Llewelyn can be reached at: llewelync@mweb.co.za
