'Olivia's Law' Receives Royal Assent in UK to Mandate Criminals' Attendance at Sentencing

The United Kingdom has formally enacted 'Olivia's Law' following its receipt of Royal Assent, mandating that criminals must be present at their sentencing hearings.

Court staff are now authorized to use reasonable force to ensure attendance.

This legislation was developed after the 2022 murder of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt Korbel in Liverpool.

Her killer, Thomas Cashman, had refused to attend his sentencing hearing, prompting a campaign led by Olivia's mother, Cheryl Korbel, to change the law.

Under the new law, offenders who refuse to attend sentencing hearings may face additional penalties, including extended sentences and the revocation of privileges such as visiting rights.

The law is part of the broader Victims and Courts Bill, which aims to support victims and restore confidence in the justice system.

Baroness Leavitt KC, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Justice, stated that the bill fulfills a manifesto commitment to protect victims and deliver swifter, fairer justice.

The legislation prioritizes the needs of victims and their families over the preferences of offenders.

Olivia's Butterfly Foundation, established in memory of Olivia Pratt Korbel, expressed gratitude to supporters and emphasized the law's importance in providing justice and closure for affected families.

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