PLEASE COPY AND PASTE THIS LETTER AS A TEMPLATE TO SEND IT TO YOUR MP
Hello,
As a concerned constituent, I am writing to you today to seek your support for a crucial campaign aimed at addressing a pressing issue within our justice system.
Government has been clear that “open justice is a fundamental principle at the very heart of our justice system and vital to the rule of law”, and even that “accessing transcripts from proceedings in serious criminal cases is not only a fundamental right of victims but is also essential for maintaining transparency and accountability within the justice system”. And yet, what is clear from victims is that justice does not feel open to them.
Victims are often dissuaded from attending trial after giving evidence, or attending sentencing hearings; when they do attend they struggle to take in information given the trauma, legal language, and fast-paced nature of court proceedings; they are not informed or not able to access video links which might enable remote attendance of trials; and, when they want a transcript of proceedings to understand and come to terms with the justice outcome, they are quoted hundreds and sometimes thousands of pounds to access these.
Victims across England and Wales are facing insurmountable barriers that undermine the very essence of Open Justice. The government's commitment to this principle is paramount, as it not only allows for the scrutiny of our justice system but also inspires trust and confidence among the public.
However, it is disheartening to witness that this transparency is not extended to the very individuals whose lives have been deeply impacted by the crimes committed against them.
The main asks of our campaign are as follows:
- Full transcripts and/or audio recordings of hearings in the Crown Court should be provided to victims upon request*, at no cost inclusive of:
- All Crown Court sentencing remarks and/or the Judge's summing-up should be provided to victims swiftly upon request, at no cost.
- All Crown Court sentencing remarks should ultimately be published in the interest of open justice.
*As per the amendment 26 to the Victims Bill, tabled by Sarah Olney MP
For the Victims Code of Practice:
- Victims should have the right to attend trial after giving evidence.
- Victims should have the right to attend the sentencing hearing.
For Policy and Practice:
- Directions given to juries should include information on a victim attending trial after giving evidence, emphasising that this should not be considered in their judgment.
- The CPS should receive training regarding a victim's right to attend the trial.
- There should be a greater provision and awareness of technology to enable virtual attendance of hearings.
- Magistrate Court cases should be recorded.
I firmly believe that these proposed changes are not only necessary but also aligned with the original principles of Open Justice and the fundamental rights of victims in our justice system. By backing Open Justice for All, you can help ensure that justice is not only served but is seen to be served, restoring trust and confidence in our legal system.
Please raise these issues with your party leadership and urge them to advocate for the Open Justice for All campaign within Parliament, among your colleagues and peers and push for the necessary reforms in the Victims and Prisoners Bill.
Together, we can work towards a more just and transparent justice system that truly serves the needs of both victims and the public.
Please also add your name to amendment 26 to the Victims Bill, tabled by Sarah Olney MP, which would enable victims to apply for transcript of court proceedings free of charge. You can add your name by contacting the Public Bill Office or Table Office, or by emailingsarah.olney.mp@parliament.uk
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response in this vital endeavour.
Sincerely,