Witness care, better communication with victims and plea negotiations…

These are some aspects of the justice system that the next Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is being encouraged to strengthen.

The advice came from former DPP, Paula Llewellyn, who demitted office yesterday after serving in the post for 17 years.

Senior Deputy DPP Claudette Thompson will be acting as DPP, starting Monday.

Speaking with IRIE FM News, Ms. Llewellyn, who is looking forward to her retirement, said her successor should also work on implementing strong cybersecurity systems, as the justice sector continues to be digitised.

She also highlighted the need for an increase in the number of paralegals who handle witness care.

She said at least five are needed.

She is also stressing the need for better engagement with victims and their relatives to enhance the justice process.

As it relates to plea negotiations, the former DPP is hoping for more positivity regarding the use by the Defence Bar.

She noted that while Jamaica’s use of plea negotiations surpasses that of other nations, it can be utilized much more.