Damian Green, the victims’ minister, announced that judges will take into account victims’ personal statements when determining sentences from December. He believes this will stop the issue of victims feeling as though they are an ‘afterthought’ in criminal proceedings.
The announcement has been welcomed by victims’ groups such as the charity Victim Support who emphasised the importance of victims being able to portray to a court the impact a crime has had on their life.
Businesses will also have the opportunity to provide a written impact statement explaining to a court how a crime has affected them.
Under the code, additional support will be provided to victims of stalking, domestic abuse, terrorism and families bereaved by violent crime. Victims will also be automatically referred to the victims’ service by the police.
The above is not legal advice; it is intended to provide information of general interest about current legal issues.
If you require further information please contact Roger Brice on 01245 228125 or email bricer@gepp.co.uk.
