A new Bill that aims to simplify sentencing laws has been unveiled in Parliament. The new Sentencing Code is part of efforts to restore public confidence in sentencing and aims to make sentencing simpler, quicker and more transparent as well as reducing the number of errors made and improving the efficiency of sentencing hearings.
The Code does not introduce any new substantive laws or alter the maximum penalties available for an offence. It will bring the sentencing procedural law that courts rely on into one place, making it more accessible both for the public and for legal professionals.
Commenting on plans to introduce a new Sentencing Code, Jon Collins, Chief Executive of the Magistrates Association, said:
The Magistrates Association welcomes today’s announcement of a Bill to introduce a new Sentencing Code. The law governing sentencing is currently overly complex and the Sentencing Code should provide much-needed clarity, helping to improve both consistency of sentencing decisions and public confidence in the justice system. The government is right to accept the recommendations of the Law Commission to introduce a new Sentencing Code and we look forward to the passage of this Bill through Parliament.