Scottish Sentencing Council launches public consultation on draft guideline

The Scottish Sentencing Council is launching a public consultation on its first draft guideline, which sets out the principles and purposes of sentencing for all offences.

The draft guideline sets out an overarching principle of ‘fairness and proportionality’ and a series of supporting principles which contribute to this.

Lady Dorrian, the Lord Justice Clerk and chair of the council, said: “The fundamental principles and purposes of sentencing have never before been expressly defined in Scotland. We believe that creating this guideline will have significant benefits both to the public and the courts, increasing consistency and transparency in sentencing.

“We are committed to taking an open and transparent approach to developing sentencing guidelines and the public consultation process is a vital part of that – we cannot complete our work in isolation.

“I would urge anyone with an interest in how sentences are decided and in the overall aims of sentencing in Scotland to take this opportunity to participate in our public consultation.

“We welcome views and comment on all of our work, including on suggested topics for future guidelines.”

The council is also currently developing general guidelines relating to the sentencing process – including the steps taken by judges when deciding sentences and the different factors they take into account – and on the sentencing of young people.

To take part in the public consultation, visit the council’s website.

The deadline for submissions is noon on 27 October.