The CCRC is an independent body which investigates miscarriages of justice in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It looks into criminal cases where people think there has been a miscarriage of justice and they have been wrongly convicted or the sentence they received was clearly excessive.
The CCRC will usually only consider applications in cases where people have already unsuccessfully appealed their conviction or sentence. It will not look at cases which have not been appealed unless there are some exceptional circumstances which mean that it makes the most sense for the CCRC to get involved (such as the need carry out sensitive enquiries). These cases are very rare. Disagreeing with the outcome of a trial or the sentence given is not enough.
There is no time limit on applying to the CCRC although older cases are often more difficult. This is because witnesses may have disappeared (or died) or because evidence and paperwork has been lost or destroyed.
The role of the CCRC is to take a fresh look at the case and, in particular, any new evidence. Generally, the CCRC will not look at points which have been already properly considered by the Court of Appeal unless there is good reason to do so. This could be the case where significant new evidence has come to light or where another major issue affects the safety of the conviction or sentence.