The Sentencing Act 2026 - A Toolkit for Criminal Lawyers

Introduction

The Sentencing Act 2026 received Royal Assent on the 22 January 2026, following the Independent Sentencing Review by Gauke of 2025.

This virtual classroom seminar will provide you with practical tips on how to navigate between the crucial changes brought about by the Sentencing Act 2026, after implementation of some key aspects. Importantly this live session will provide a toolkit, not simply on the fundamental changes brought about by the Act, but also a guide as to how you can swiftly locate those amendments within the provisions of Sentencing Act 2020 post 22 March 2026, and tips as to how to apply these in Sentencing hearings.

This live session is aimed at busy practitioners who want an easy yet comprehensive overview to be able to navigate through the maze of main changes implemented post 22 March 2026.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following aspects of the Sentencing Act 2026:

• Presumption of Suspended sentence orders for sentences of 12 months or less - looking at exceptional circumstances and exemptions
• Allowance for sentences up to 3 years to be suspended
• Amending purposes of sentencing
• Deferment periods - extended to 12 months
• Judicial findings on domestic abuse at point of sentencing
• Whole life orders for murder of police, prison or probation officers
• New community order requirements
• Sentencing Guidelines and approval pre-issuance
• Movement towards an earned progression model - changes to release for Standard Determinate Sentences
• Changes to the recall model
• Amendments to Bail Act 1976
• Release for certain repatriated prisoners
• Deportation of foreign criminals

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.