Story perspectives

UK Offers Free Access to Judges' Sentencing Remarks

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The UK government will provide free access to judges' sentencing remarks.
Previously, victims paid up to hundreds of pounds to obtain these remarks.
The change follows recommendations from the Leveson Review.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said the access lets victims reflect at their own pace.
Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman called it a significant step toward transparency and urged reforms, including access to judges' summing-up in acquittals.

1 of 1

Story summary

The UK government will provide free access to judges' sentencing remarks.
Previously, victims paid up to hundreds of pounds to obtain these remarks.
The change follows recommendations from the Leveson Review.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said the access lets victims reflect at their own pace.
Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman called it a significant step toward transparency and urged reforms, including access to judges' summing-up in acquittals.