Provide a brief description of how the criminal justice system operates in Northern Ireland, critically assessing a key contemporary challenge facing the criminal justice system with specific reference to:. Non-custodial sentences The criminal justice system in Northern Ireland is a complex institution that plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order across the county. It was after the 1998 Good Friday Agreement that the Northern Ireland criminal justice system was made to change, due to the previous policing system being entirely upheld by politics and the instability that came with it through violence and sectarianism. Within Northern Ireland, the nature of the criminal justice system is debated, as it is bound to the political atmosphere, …show more content…
This, too, can aid misconceptions and concerns raised in terms of sentence leniency. This would promote public opinion, as confidence in sentencing will allow offenders to take accountability and address the root cause of their criminal behaviour. Secondly, for proper integration, there is a need for a more communal-based justice system, as it is critical to overcoming challenges associated with non-custodial sentencing such as anti-social behaviour. This includes ensuring adequate resources and support are given to the individuals serving their alternative sentencing; this ensures mental stability and the possibility of rehabilitation and provides the necessary intervention and supervision. This may involve community outreach programmes, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment and therapy; it is these programmes that diminish re-offenders. Moreover, there is a need for ongoing evaluation and research to ensure the accountability and effectiveness of non-custodial sentencing in Northern Ireland. This allows the identification of the best practices and areas for improvement for people in Northern Ireland within the community justice system. By informing policies and practices that are aimed at enhancing the possible outcomes of non-custodial sentences for both offenders and the wider