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<p>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. That is why we have provided the required
technology to the Crown Courts to enable transcription of different parts of the hearing
from the recordings made in all proceedings.</p><p>Providing free transcripts of the
recordings made during hearings to all victims in criminal proceedings would incur
in significant cost. Nevertheless, we have made sure that bereaved family members
of victims of homicide and death by dangerous driving, can get a copy of the judicial
sentencing remarks paid for by the public purse.</p><p>In certain serious criminal
cases, a copy of the judicial sentencing remarks can be made available to the public
free of charge at the judge’s discretion. Additionally, under the <em>Code of Practice
for Victims of Crime</em>, victims in all criminal proceedings are entitled to be
told the sentence the offender received, including a short explanation about the meaning
and effect of the sentence, by the Witness Care Unit, which is operated by the police.
If a victim has any questions about the sentence which the Witness Care Unit are unable
to answer, they are entitled to be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service, who
will answer any questions which the Witness Care Unit is not able to answer.</p>
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