17 Entry of verdict of not guilty by order of a judge.E+W
Where a defendant arraigned on an indictment or inquisition pleads not guilty and the prosecutor proposes to offer no evidence against him, the court before which the defendant is arraigned may, if it thinks fit, order that a verdict of not guilty shall be recorded without [F1any further steps being taken in the proceedings], and the verdict shall have the same effect as if the defendant had been tried and acquitted on the verdict of a jury [F2or a court].
Textual Amendments
F1Words in s. 17 substituted (24.7.2006 for E.W., 8.1.2007 in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 36 para. 42(a); S.I. 2006/1835, art. 2(h); S.I. 2006/3422, art. 2(c)(i)
F2Words in s. 17 inserted (24.7.2006 for E.W., 8.1.2007 in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 36 para. 42(b); S.I. 2006/1835, art. 2(h); S.I. 2006/3422, art. 2(c)(i)