Changes to Domestic Violence Sentencing

February 2018 saw new sentencing guidelines being introduced in relation to domestic violence offences in the UK. These will come into force on the 24^th May 2018 making them applicable to anyone convicted on or after that date of such an offence.

You can read the overarching principles here.

Violence in a domestic setting is considered more serious due to the breach of trust and security that should exist between people in familial or intimate relationships. It is therefore already sentenced more harshly. The new guidelines offer the courts a more structured approach to sentencing.

In line with the further protections for victims of domestic violence Home Secretary Amber Rudd plans to increase the use of screens and video links in court for achieving best evidence. But there are conflicting responses from practitioners.  You can read more about that here.

 At John Onions Solicitors we regularly defend people accused of domestic violence. Unfortunately, due to the cuts in legal aid many defendants find themselves without a solicitor. We are often appointed by the court to conduct cross-examination on behalf of the accused in order to protect the aggrieved from being cross-examined by them in person. If you find yourself charged with such an offence please contact us to discuss your case.