Sentencing Council

The Sentencing Council is an independent body in England and Wales that provides guidance on sentencing in criminal cases. Its main role is to create consistent sentencing practices, ensuring that similar offenses receive similar penalties. The Council develops guidelines for judges and magistrates, taking into account factors like the severity of the crime and the offender's history. By promoting transparency and fairness, the Sentencing Council helps maintain public confidence in the justice system. It also conducts research on sentencing trends and effectiveness to improve the legal framework continuously.