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<p>The government is constantly assessing how to improve the experience and support
that victims receive within the criminal justice system, including mechanisms to facilitate
the access to court transcripts and audio recordings of court hearings.</p><p>We understand
that the ability to access transcripts from court proceedings is an essential part
of maintaining transparency and accountability within the justice system. However,
there is a cost attached to transcribing lengthy audio of a hearing, which in some
cases can run into thousands of pounds. Providing the full transcripts of a hearing
free of charge to all crime victims, risks diverting resources away from other key
services. To help with transcription costs, 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 (a specific part of the hearing) paid for by the public
purse. The Ministry of Justice and HM Courts and Tribunals Service continue to seek
ways to reduce the fees that victims are required to pay to obtain transcripts in
criminal proceedings. In particular, we will explore how technology could be used
to reduce the costs of transcription, with a view of passing on the savings to parties.</p><p>With
regard to audio recordings, anyone, including victims, can apply to the court for
permission to listen to the recording of the hearing at a suitable court location,
free of charge and at judicial discretion.</p>
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