Justice Bill
Clause 25: Death of a child or vulnerable adult: limitation of power to "No Bill" alternative charge
Clause 25 aims to close a gap in the law so that a judge can enter a "No Bill" on a charge such as murder or manslaughter only if the judge also enters a “No Bill” on the related charge under section 5 of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 (causing or allowing a child or vulnerable adult to die or suffer serious physical harm).
Clause 25
Death of child or vulnerable adult: limitation of power to “No Bill” alternative charge
25.—(1) Section 7 of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 (offence of causing or allowing death of child or vulnerable adult: evidence and procedure) is amended as follows.
(2) After subsection (3) insert—
“(3A) The power of a judge of the Crown Court under section 2(3) of the Grand Jury (Abolition) Act (Northern Ireland) 1969 (entry of “No Bill”) is not to be exercised in relation to the offence of murder or manslaughter unless it is also exercised in relation to the section 5 offence.”.