Hot Topics in Criminal Law - 6 Essential Modules

Introduction

This modular webinar will provide you with a clear and accessible update on a range of topics in criminal law in England and Wales.

Across six modules, we will update you on the latest legislation, case law and sentencing principles.

After viewing the modules, you will have the confidence and practical skills to identify key issues, navigate criminal matters effectively and represent your client to the best of your ability.

What You Will Learn Module 1 - Legislation Update - What’s New on the Statute Books?

This module will consider the following:

• Crime and Policing Act 2026 - with 257 sections and 27 schedules
• Victims and Courts Act 2026 - with 19 sections and two schedules
• Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Act 2026 - just two sections

Module 2 - Case Law Update from the Court of Appeal & Divisional Court

This module will consider the following:

• Section 34 inferences - how to deal with them at trial
• Section 35 inferences at court
• Admissibility of the MDDD/A and a premature verdict
• Restraining orders on acquittal
• Hearsay under s. 116 Criminal Justice Act 2003
• The use of AI by a witness before giving evidence

Module 3 - Sexual Offences - What’s New?

This module will consider the following:

• Rex v BVA - consent
• Duty to report child sexual abuse
• Child sexual offences - grooming an aggravating feature
• Voyeurism - Court of Appeal guidance
• Management of sex offenders - notification of name change
• Administering harmful substances, including spiking

Module 4 - Online & Digital Offences

This module will consider the following:

• Child sexual abuse - image generators
• Intimate images - semen defaced images
• Pornography - strangulation and suffocation
• Intimate image generators
• Online Safety Act 2023 - offences brought into force
• Encouraging serious self-harm

Module 5 - Criminal Procedure Rules

This module will consider the following:

• The 2025 edition - what’s new?
• Case law on the interaction between the Rules and primary legislation
• What has the Leveson Review said about the Rules?
• Section 142 applications - reopening a case in the Magistrates’ Court
• The Rules as a living document
• Special Measures - how has this changed?

Module 6 - The Sentencing Code

This module will consider the following:

• The presumption as to when to suspend a sentence
• The imposition guideline - how has this changed
• Compelling a defendant to attend a sentencing hearing
• Guidance on s. 277A from the Court of Appeal about when to suspend
• Court of Appeal guidance on children and roles in conspiracies
• When will it be appropriate to pass the statutory maximum for an offence?