The Sentencing Act 2026 has introduced the power for the courts to defer sentence for up to 12 months with effect from 22nd March 2026.
This research event will focus on the use of deferred sentences, looking at research conducted for the Sentencing Academy in 2022 and 2025, and at the Choices and Consequences (C2) Programme in Hertfordshire.
The Future of Deferred Sentencing
(Authors Dorothy Moorley, Gemma Birkett and Julian Roberts, published September 2025)
Dr Gemma Birkett, Senior Lecturer in Criminology at City University, London, will talk about the research for the Sentencing Academy. This report explores the examples set in other jurisdictions of deferred sentences, and in particular the problem-solving approaches often accompanying them. This report concludes by calling for more comprehensive guidance surrounding deferred sentencing and noting key issues and priorities, including the use of deferred sentences for women.
The Choices and Consequences (C2) Programme - Hertfordshire Police, Probation and CPS
Detective Inspector Chris Ross Hertfordshire Police, with HMPPS, will introduce C2 which is the first project of its kind in the country. C2 aims to offer “persistent and prolific criminals a realistic chance to break free from the cycle of crime, and in turn, reducing the number of victims”. The C2 Programme is supported by all partner agencies in the criminal justice system. C2 officers identify suitable candidates, who must demonstrate their desire to rehabilitate by admitting all past offences. They are then assessed by the Probation Service. Ultimately, the courts decide and, if suitable, their sentence is deferred for up to six months whilst they undertake an extensive rehabilitation regime that may include drug treatment, life skills training, education and employment.
Joining instructions will be sent to registered attendees a few days prior to the event.
To register please send an email to helen@probation-institute.org
Image by Michael L Hiraeth on Pixabay