Victims and bereaved families will now be granted a substantial six months to challenge sentences they believe are unduly lenient, a significant extension from the previous 28-day limit.
The Ministry of Justice announced the reform, acknowledging the prior timeframe was insufficient for families navigating the complexities of the justice system.
These changes to the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme are designed to allow ample time for requests to the Attorney General and Solicitor General, potentially leading to Court of Appeal referrals.
Other members of the public, however, will retain the original 28-day window for such cases.
Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman welcomed the development, describing the change as long overdue.
She said: “I am delighted that, after years of campaigning led by Tracey Hanson following the tragic death of her son Josh, and supported by bereaved families, the Government has finally listened.
“I have long supported and worked closely with Tracey on her campaign since 2019, following the appalling injustice she experienced, and I hope this marks an important step towards greater parity between victims and offenders.
“I pay tribute to Tracey’s determination in securing these changes to honour Josh. This is a testament to her campaign, and to the many families who stood alongside her to ensure their voices were heard.”
Justice Secretary David Lammy said victims and their families need “time to breathe” and get advice after a sentence is handed down.
“This change means they’ll have more time to do this – and most importantly, get the justice they deserve,” he added.
The Conservatives claimed the Government’s move represented a U-turn.
Shadow justice minister Dr Kieran Mullan said: “After months and months of voting down sensible proposals for reform this is a step forward and reflects the strength of feeling from victims, families and campaigners who have been calling for change.
“Extending the time limit to six months is a good step and should help more people access the scheme. Too often, victims simply do not know the scheme exists or are given too little time to act.”
