Sentencing Principles, Procedure and Practice 2026

This annual title is the essential sentencing text, updated with all the latest changes from the past 12 months, including new legislation, the new Criminal Practice Directions, new Sentencing Guidelines, and all-important cases from the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division).

The book is split into two parts. Part A contains everything you need to know about sentencing procedure, courts’ sentencing powers and sentencing principles. The title has been structured around the Sentencing Code with extensive commentary and the availability of sentences, on the Sentencing Code (as amended) and guidance regarding the extent to which case law pre-dating the Sentencing Code continues to apply. Part B provides guidance on determining the appropriate sentence for almost all criminal offences, including the sentencing guidelines and important cases from the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) on the application of the guidelines. Part B also includes commentary on the approach to determining the appropriate sentence designed to be useful to practitioners and the judiciary.

The title includes extensive expert commentary from the authors and other expert practitioners and academics, identifying likely arguments and areas of ambiguity. There are concise summaries of all the relevant case law, giving users everything they need to know. The book is intended for use in sentencing hearings and appeals, in court and for out of court research.

• Written and structured around the Sentencing Code
• Case summaries of important cases with expert commentary
• Analysis of sentencing guidelines, identifying particular issues and providing commentary
• Includes all relevant legislation such as the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, Criminal Justice Act 2003, the Sentencing Code, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 and the Judicial Review and Courts Act 2022
• Coverage extends to both the Crown Court and the magistrates’ courts

New coverage in this edition includes revised sections and commentary and various other changes to reflect new legislation and case law.