Victims and Courts Act 2026

The Victims and Courts Bill strengthens protections and support for crime victims throughout the criminal justice process. It establishes a statutory right for victims to receive information about their case, introduces Victim Statements allowing victims to describe the impact of crime on them, and creates a Victims' Commissioner to oversee victim support services. The bill also reforms court procedures to improve victim participation and safety, including measures to reduce delays in cases and protect vulnerable witnesses during trials.