Cowardly criminals who refuse to face their victims in court will now be punished even more severely, thanks to the UK’s new Victims and Courts Bill unveiled on 7 May 2025.
The law hands judges fresh powers to force offenders to attend their sentencing hearings, or face extra jail time and tougher prison sanctions like loss of privileges. It’s a bold move aimed at restoring victims’ confidence in a justice system long criticised for letting offenders dodge accountability.
Stronger Justice for Victims
Under the new law, judges can now order extra penalties — up to two years’ additional prison time — for criminals who refuse to attend their own sentencing. Other punishments include being confined to their cells and losing prison perks like gym time.
The law covers all Crown Court cases, ensuring no offender escapes facing the consequences of their crimes.
If criminals misbehave during proceedings and are removed, they will still be hit with the same stiff penalties.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:
This Bill will ensure victims see justice done and are given the vital support they need to rebuild their lives.”
Offenders to Lose Parental Rights in Abuse Cases
In a powerful move to protect vulnerable children, the Bill also automatically strips parental rights from convicted child sex offenders. These predators will no longer be able to interfere in their children’s lives, such as seeking school updates or influencing their activities.
Minister Alex Davies-Jones praised the reforms, saying:
Justice isn’t optional — we’ll make sure criminals face their victims.
Victims’ Champion Empowered
The law also strengthens the role of the Victims’ Commissioner, giving them power to directly intervene in individual cases that expose wider systemic issues.
Claire Waxman OBE, London’s Independent Victims’ Commissioner, welcomed the changes:
For too long, offenders have avoided facing justice and their victims. I am pleased the government has acted.
Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, added:
This marks a step towards a more accountable system that puts victims first.
A Step Toward True Accountability
The sweeping changes come after tireless campaigning by families of high-profile victims, including Olivia Pratt-Korbel and Zara Aleena, whose tragic deaths exposed glaring flaws in how offenders could manipulate the system to avoid facing grieving families.
Under the Government’s Plan for Change, these reforms mark a crucial step toward rebuilding trust in Britain’s justice system and making sure victims’ voices are finally heard loud and clear.
