Inside Time has published a new article reflecting on the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies’ recent panel discussion on joint enterprise and the prospects for reform.
Written by Raymond Smith, the article explores both the legal and human dimensions of joint enterprise prosecutions, drawing on contributions from legal experts, researchers, campaigners and family members affected by the doctrine. The event brought together around 150 online participants alongside attendees in person at the Centre’s offices in Vauxhall.
The discussion featured contributions from Dame Vera Baird KC, Felicity Gerry KC, Charlotte Henry and Dr Patrick Williams. The session was chaired by Helen Mills from the Centre.
The article highlights concerns raised during the discussion about the continued use of joint enterprise, despite the Supreme Court’s ruling in R v Jogee that the law had “taken a wrong turn”. Speakers reflected on the gap between the Jogee judgment and its implementation in practice, as well as the difficulties faced by those seeking appeals against convictions.
A key theme of the discussion was the disproportionate impact of joint enterprise prosecutions on young Black men. Drawing on research and professional experience, speakers discussed the role of gang narratives in prosecutions, concerns about discriminatory policing practices, and the ways in which assumptions about association and group identity can influence charging decisions and jury perceptions.
The event also examined the wider consequences of joint enterprise prosecutions for individuals, families and communities. Contributions from campaigners and those directly affected by the doctrine highlighted the long-term personal impact of convictions and the sustained efforts by families and advocacy groups to push for reform.
The conversation highlighted both the complexity of the legal framework and the continuing concerns about fairness, accountability, and the lived impact of joint enterprise prosecutions. It also underlined the importance of sustained dialogue between practitioners, researchers and those with direct experience of the system.
The article further reflects on the significance of several developments expected later this year, including findings from the Westminster Commission on Joint Enterprise and recommendations from the Law Commission, both of which may shape future debates around reform.
Read Raymond Smith’s full article in Inside Time.
Footage from the event will be released shortly.
