Rape and Sexual Offences Free Sentencing Remarks Pilot
Rape and Sexual Offences victims, whose cases are heard at a Crown Court in England or Wales, are now able to apply for a transcript of the judges’ sentencing remarks free of charge.
Applies to England and Wales
On 28 May 2024, a new online and paper request form was introduced as an extension of the existing provision for families of homicide victims. It was introduced as part of a 12-month MOJ pilot to provide victims of rape and other sexual offences the opportunity to request a free copy of the judges’ sentencing remarks in their case.
We recognise that sentencing is an integral part of the criminal justice system for victims. However, we know the experience of attending court in person can be distressing. The pilot focuses on rape and other sexual offence victims, rather than all victims in the Crown Court, due to the particular difficulties they can face when attending trials, often because of the associated trauma.
Sentencing remarks were chosen because they were considered to be of most value to the victim, as they summarise the case made against the defendant, and can provide an insight into how the trial outcome was reached.
Applying for a transcript
When someone pleads guilty or is found guilty in a Crown Court, the judge will make sentencing remarks, which include their decision on sentencing and reasons for imposing the sentence.
People can be eligible for a free transcript if they are involved in a case as either:
- a family member of a victim of murder, manslaughter or an offence that caused death on the road
- a victim of rape or sexual offences or are applying on their behalf
They can visit Apply for a transcript of a court or tribunal hearing - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) to either:
- use the online service to apply
- download and fill in the paper form to apply
Release of the transcript is a judicial decision, and the court can refuse to provide part, or all, of a transcript (for example, if details of the hearing are confidential). Applicants will get a response within 20 working days of applying.
If an application is granted, the applicant will be asked to opt into the evaluation of the pilot; we will evaluate the uptake and impact. We will ensure that we reflect on the needs of victims alongside the affordability consideration, as and when we look at the future of provision in this area.