In an effort to reduce the court backlog, magistrates will be granted more sentencing power.
Dominic Raab, who doubled the maximum currently allowed for inmates today announced that they can now lock them up for 12 months.
Justice Secretary stated that the change will result in a reduction of around 2,000 Crown Court days per year. This is because fewer cases need to be referred for sentencing.
He said: ‘Along with the Nightingale courts, digital hearings and unlimited sitting days, we will deliver swifter and more effective justice.’
Bev Higgs, chairman of the Magistrates’ Association, said: ‘We have been campaigning for years for magistrates’ sentencing powers to be extended, so we are delighted with the announcement.’
Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said: ‘Along with the Nightingale courts, digital hearings and unlimited sitting days, we will deliver swifter and more effective justice.’
Figures show more than 60,000 Crown Court cases are outstanding in England and Wales, plus more than 300,000 in magistrates’ courts.
Powers to increase magistrates’ maximum sentencing powers were first passed into law in 2003 – but have never been brought into force.
The changes are limited to ‘triable-either-way’ offences meaning that defendants can still opt to have their case heard by a jury.
Crown Courts in England and Wales currently have 60,000 backlog cases, while magistrates have 300,000. Pictured: The Brighton Magistrates’ Court
They will come into force ‘in the coming months’, a Ministry of Justice spokesman said.
Legislation will include what the spokesman described as an ‘off switch’, so ministers can revert to a lower maximum sentence in magistrates’ courts.
If the prison population is too large, it may be necessary for the measures to end.