19 January: Response to increased sentencing powers for magistrates

Donna Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the Hampshire and Isle of Local Criminal Justice Board said,

“It’s important that steps are taken to reduce the backlogs and these powers will help to get swifter justice for victims. My local criminal justice partners have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic to keep cases moving through the courts as the COVID restrictions have meant a reduced number of cases can be heard in our courts.

“I was a magistrate for 16 years so know first-hand the valuable role they play in the justice system. Giving magistrates increased powers will mean many more serious cases such as fraud, theft and assault will be dealt with quicker. This will help to drive down backlogs, bringing offenders to justice quicker which will better support victims.”

Announcement by Ministry of Justice, HM Courts & Tribunals Service, and The Rt Hon Dominic Raab MP