Vindication – the conviction or in exceptional circumstances identification of the real perpetrator(s) after a miscarriage of justice – is the most potent force to change the criminal justice system. We have pioneered the concept and highlighted its potential to help correct miscarriages of justice or even prevent them. In the DNA age it will occur more often. Each case offers a chance to learn lessons and help prevent recurrence. These opportunities must not be wasted.
Vindication is a pro-active project that empowers the victims of such cases to demand justice – true restorative justice. They have a right to expect the state to recognise that they are victims of the state, so the state has a duty to ensure that the causes of these miscarriages of justice are identified and rectified.