Response to Government announcement on Character References

The Victims of Crime Commissioner, Elizabeth Langdon, welcomes the AG’s announcement to remove the “good character" references in sentencing criminals.

Being a victim of crime is a traumatic experience.  Many victims’ lives are irreversibly impacted.  Participating in a court case and re-living the crime can compound the trauma. 

It is incumbent on the justice system to treat all victims of crime with courtesy and respect. 

Today’s announcement is a welcome change.  When it is enacted, it will be one of the ways that the trauma to victims, inside court, will be reduced.

The Commissioner looks forward to being consulted on the legislation to ensure it is consistent with the Victims' Charter.

Note: Commissioner Langdon made three recommendations about improving the court process for victim survivors in her review of the Victims’ Charter in 2025.  Recommendations 12-14 – Review of the Victims Charter