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<p>The Lord Chancellor committed to reviewing sentencing in cases of domestic homicide
earlier this year and I am pleased that the first stage of this review, an analysis
of data, sentencing remarks and outcomes of relevant domestic homicide cases from
the past two years, is well underway. We are hopeful that the review will be complete
by the end of the year.</p><p>The first stage of the review is focused on achieving
an improved understanding of current sentencing practice, before moving to a second
stage which will consider whether any changes to the law are necessary, and if so,
what those changes should be. This initial stage will examine how the sentencing legislation
and guidelines have been applied, including in cases where a weapon is and is not
taken to the scene, and where victims of domestic abuse have killed their abuser.
It will also consider how aggravating and mitigating circumstances are taken into
account, the use of current defences to charges of murder and manslaughter, and whether
there appear to be gender disparities in case outcomes and how the guidelines are
being applied.</p><p>Following this initial stage, the Lord Chancellor intends to
appoint an independent expert, with the relevant experience and knowledge in this
field, to oversee a more detailed phase of consideration and consultation. Their role
will be to consider the findings of the initial case review and data analysis and
use that as the basis for identifying potential areas for reform and delivering recommendations
for change to the Lord Chancellor.</p><p>Once the independent expert is in place,
we will work with them to finalise the scope and approach for this second phase of
the Review, including issues of consultation. Engagement with key stakeholders will
be critical and the Lord Chancellor is keen that they have the opportunity to provide
their input in helping shape the recommendations. He has already met with both the
Victims Commissioner and Domestic Abuse Commissioner to discuss the review as a first
step.</p>
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