On cover: Legal instruments

A missing person is an individual whose whereabouts are unknown and where there is some concern for his or her wellbeing. In the UK, around 250,000 people are reported missing every year, with the majority being children under the age of 18. Despite the fact that missing persons are a social phenomenon which encompasses vast areas of interest, relatively little is known about those who go missing, what happens to them while they are missing, and what can be done to prevent these incidents from occurring. This groundbreaking book brings together for the first time ideas and expertise across this vast subject area into one interconnected publication. It explores the subjects of missing children, missing adults, the investigative process of missing person cases, and the families of missing persons. Those with no prior knowledge or professionals with focused knowledge in some areas will be able to expand their understanding of a variety of topics relevant to this field through detailed chapters which advance our understanding of this complex phenomenon, discuss what is unknown, and suggest the best and most important steps forward to further advance our knowledge.

When a person goes missing their family can suffer serious financial repercussions, as well as inevitable pain and distress. Having examined the law and processes the Committee have found that such suffering is exacerbated by: a legislative patchwork of bewildering complexity; the inability to administer the financial situation of their missing relatives; a lack of information about the actions they are able to take; and ignorance of the correct procedures to be followed by police, lawyers, banks, insurers and others. This report puts forward a threefold recommended approach. Firstly, the introduction of a presumption of death act to clarify the legal position. Such an act should be modelled on the legislation in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Presumption of death orders, however, can only solve some of the problems families face. It will only be appropriate to declare a missing person dead several years after their disappearance. In that time, their financial affairs can be devastated beyond hope of recovery. The Committee also therefore recommends that legislation be introduced to allow for a system of guardianship orders, similar to those in Australia. These will allow for the administration of the missing person's property in his or her best interests if they have not returned after three months, as well as support for dependents. Finally, they call on the Government and industry to provide effective guidance for families in very difficult and distressing circumstances, as well as those who provide services for them.

An indispensable guide for students studying the contemporary law of evidence. The fourteenth edition examines the theory behind the law, as well as its practical application, with emphasis on current debates.