This document highlights the experiences of children with a parent(s) accused of a capital crime. From the point of arrest, to sentencing, to release or execution of the sentence, the study points out the devastating effects on these children’s physical and mental well-being. Unfortunately, these consequences are not paid much attention in criminal justice systems. The study concludes with recommendations for States.

See also

The Bangkok Rules supplement a set of international standards on the treatment of prisoners – The UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners and the UN Standard Minimum Rules for Non-custodial Measures (‘Tokyo Rules’). The Bangkok Rules address the needs and characteristics of women in the criminal justice system. QUNO and Penal Reform International participated in the development of the Bangkok Rules, and issued this Briefing to encourage their dissemination and implementation.

One of QUNO’s earlier studies on the effects of parental imprisonment on children.  All through the criminal justice system, which focuses almost exclusively on the offender from arrest to post-release, the best interests of children are rarely taken into account. The paper highlights some of the experiences of children with an imprisoned parent and identifies some good practices that offer “well-considered and holistic solutions to particular problems.”