Courtroom Advice
Step By Step Advice on Going to Court...
Home  /  In Trouble

Pre-Sentence Reports: What They Are and What Happens Next

Originally written by , updated by the editorial team on 24th April 2026
Ask a Question
Pre-Sentence Reports: What They Are and What Happens Next

What a pre-sentence report is

If you plead guilty or are found guilty of a criminal offence, the court may ask for a pre-sentence report before deciding your sentence. This is a written report prepared by the Probation Service. It helps the judge or magistrates work out a suitable sentence by looking at the offence, your circumstances, and whether you are likely to respond well to options such as a community order or unpaid work.

If you want a sense of what sentence you might be facing, you can use our free Sentence Guide.

In England and Wales, reports are prepared by probation officers working for His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service. The court can ask for a full written report or a shorter oral report on the same day. In busier magistrates' courts, a short oral report from the duty probation officer is now common. Fuller reports tend to be ordered for complex cases, defendants with no previous convictions, or where the court faces a significant sentencing decision.

Sentence Guide

Sentence Guide

Wondering what sentence to expect? Tell us the offence and circumstances and get a plain English guide to the likely sentencing range and what factors affect it.

Try our Sentence Guide free, here on this site →

The interview

If a report is ordered, you will usually attend an interview with a probation officer. They will ask about the offence, your version of events, how you feel about it now, and your personal circumstances: housing, work, income, family, health, any drug or alcohol use, and previous convictions. Interviews can take place at a probation office, at court, or sometimes by video or phone.

You are entitled to legal representation throughout sentencing, and you can ask your solicitor for advice before the interview. In some cases a solicitor can attend, though most interviews happen without one present.

Turn up and engage properly. If you refuse to cooperate or fail to attend, the court will likely hear about it and may draw adverse conclusions about your willingness to engage with a community sentence. Courts sometimes make cooperation with probation a bail condition after conviction. If you cannot make the appointment, contact probation as soon as possible to rearrange. If you simply fail to show, the court may sentence you without the report.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

What the report covers and who sees it

The report gives the court a fuller picture: why the offence happened, the risk of reoffending, any risk of harm to others, and what sentence is realistic given your situation. It usually ends with a proposal, for example a community order with unpaid work, a rehabilitation activity requirement, drug or alcohol treatment, or a curfew with electronic tagging.

The court does not have to follow that proposal. Sentencing is for the magistrates or judge, working within the Sentencing Council guidelines. Magistrates often go along with probation's suggestion when it fits the guideline. Crown Court judges are more willing to depart, especially where custody is on the table. A report proposing a community order will not necessarily stop a judge imposing prison if the guideline points that way.

The report is shared with you, your solicitor or barrister, the prosecution, the court clerk, and the bench or judge. You should read it before the hearing. If anything is wrong, tell your lawyer straight away so it can be raised in court. Minor errors can often be corrected on the day; significant disputes may need a written submission or an adjournment. Fixing a factual error before sentencing is much easier than afterwards.

Preparing for the interview

Probation officers deal with personal information regularly: mental health, addiction, domestic circumstances. If there is something the court needs to understand, the interview is the right place to raise it. You can ask your solicitor beforehand what to mention. Anything you say may end up in the written report, so think about it in advance.

Be straight about your circumstances. Exaggerating or minimising tends to come across badly, and probation officers are experienced at spotting it. If the report suggests you were not honest, that can affect how the court views your remorse and suitability for community sentences.

If you have a mental health condition, learning disability, or neurodivergent condition such as autism or ADHD, say so. The report can flag this and recommend adjustments to any requirements attached to a community order.

  • Attend the interview on time with any paperwork probation ask for.
  • Read the report carefully before sentencing and flag errors to your lawyer.
  • Check whether cooperation with probation is a bail condition.
  • If you cannot attend, contact probation as soon as you know.

A report can still help even when custody seems unavoidable. It can set out mitigating factors: genuine remorse, caring responsibilities, steps taken to address the behaviour, or context that might affect sentence length or whether it can be suspended. The report also feeds into how probation manages your sentence once you are released on licence.

A pre-sentence report will not decide your sentence alone, but it often has real influence, particularly where the court has a genuine choice between custody and a community order. Treating the process seriously is usually worth the effort.

The Next Step

Sentence Guide

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Sentence Guide lets you wondering what sentence to expect? Tell us the offence and circumstances and get a plain English guide to the likely sentencing range and what factors affect it. Try it now →

Would you like a solicitor to contact you? Get help →

Tell us a little about your situation and we will try to match you with someone who can help. It is free to ask and you are under no obligation.

If anyone is in danger, call 999 now. This form is not for emergencies.

250 questions
Ask Courtroom Advice a Question
CourtroomAdvice Editor 04/07/2026 at 11:00 am
@Sarah Sarah, this is a serious charge and importation of that quantity almost always attracts a custodial sentence, so getting a solicitor in place urgently is vital. Push for a full pre-sentence report from probation and make sure your mental health history, PIP, medical records and any evidence of coercion or exploitation are included, as vulnerable women are sometimes used as couriers. Ask about a psychiatric report too under section 232 of the Sentencing Act. That combination can genuinely shift the outcome.
Sarah 04/07/2026 at 10:06 am
Caught bringing a suitcase into UK (27kg cannabis). Sever mental health issues. Easily controlled and not stable. Owns a home (mortgage) on PIP and benefits. female, 53 years old
CourtroomAdvice Editor 21/04/2026 at 7:24 pm
@b16simon A positive pre-sentence report can certainly help your case, especially if it shows genuine remorse, willingness to address drug issues, and strong community ties. However, drug offences, particularly Class A, are taken seriously by courts and sentencing guidelines can be quite strict.

The probation officer will assess your circumstances, previous convictions, and readiness to change. Being honest with them and showing you're already taking steps to address any addiction issues can make a real difference to their recommendations.

If you have a solicitor speak to them urgently about your specific situation as they can advise on realistic outcomes and help you prepare properly for the probation interview. If you don't have one yet, please consider contacting a criminal defence solicitor immediately as this issue is too important to handle alone without support.
b16simon 21/04/2026 at 11:08 am
if you have concern for class a drugs and class b drugs can a good probation report keep you out of prison
social-issues 22/06/2025 at 10:03 am
Hello, Farheen. The correct answer to your question is, no. We can not shed any light on the reasons why you son's solicitor thinks that his trial was faulty. We were not there and we don't know the solicitor. But, generally-speaking, in order for an appeal to be successful, it would need to show that either the court followed an incorrect procedure or the prosecution followed one.
social-issues 22/06/2025 at 9:47 am
Hello Rodney, you went through the police interview wirhout a solicitor? Or used the duty solicitor? You've had your probation interview? It's a little late to be involving a solicitor now. The first consultation is usually free. I'd visit the office of one and simply ask there.
social-issues 22/06/2025 at 9:40 am
Hello, Farheen. It is not clear what you mean when you say that an incorrect law has been used. Incidentally, being unable to communicate is not a barrier to being prosecuted. Courts determine whether or not the accused is fit to stand trial. Communication skills are ignored.
RODNEY 12/06/2025 at 3:13 pm
My case was adjourned and I have now had my interview with the probation officer. Given that most magistrates courts take the PSR and subsequent recommendation on the report is their any point in engaging and paying for a solicitor for my sentencing hearing? I am likely to receive a community order or fine, possibly both.I am struggling to understand what difference they can make and given the cost of a solicitor
Farheen Khan 23/04/2025 at 4:28 am
My son has a pre sentence report interview. My son cannot communicate and has mental health issues.
The solictor has will submit an appeal soon.
Due to incorrect law of used as the previous trial should have not happened. Can you shed some light into this.
Solictor is asking to go to the interview hence she is fully aware my son is mentally not stable.
Not sure why.
What is the alternative to this?
social-issues 02/08/2024 at 12:51 pm
Hello Emz, I can understand family and health questions. They seem quite reasonable. The focus on eye problems is a bit of a mystery to me, unless the PO or PSO has previous history with eye problems. As for what type of sentence will be required, this forum can't help with that. And, in any case, the questions asked have no bearing on it. They are about the subject and his or her situation. They are not about the sentence.
Emz 30/07/2024 at 1:11 pm
Could anyone help I had a presentence report done and they asked me loads of questions about my kids and partner and also if I have any diabetes or eye problems could this be because I will be receiving a custodial sentence?? Very worried and scared I am getting charged for 2 commons assault charges first time in court only got a caution and reprimand on record previous to this which is over 16years ago what are the chances of being sent down thanks any help much appreciated.
social-issues 23/07/2024 at 9:34 am
Hello, Lucy, I didn't make it clear enough that it's the Probation Service that is being stupid. Fishing isn't the only common mistake that it makes. It also asks offenders to assess themselves. There isn't a realistic opportunity for victims to address the police and the courts. Yes, they can give written statements. But, the systems are geared towards the offender. Victims are byproducts.
social-issues 23/07/2024 at 6:11 am
They are fishing, to be honest. What they don't want is a known violent offender harming a family while on probation and then they get in the headlines for not managing him properly. It's a stupid question. If he is a violent offender he doesn't belong next to anybody. And he certainly doesn't belong next to children. Anything can happen in the future. If Probation manages violent offenders in the wrong way they will end up in the newspapers Social Serices or not.
Lucy 22/07/2024 at 2:28 pm
Hi,
My partner is up for sentencing for a section 18 - probation have been to interview for a pre sentence report and asked him alot about me and my children (who are not his), in particular they asked if i was involved with social services and I was wondering why they would ask this?
social-issues 13/06/2024 at 11:11 pm
Hello Remel, no. Holidays have nothing to do with sentencing. If you have a sentence to begin, you will be taken away to serve it. It wouldn't matter whether you had a holiday, wedding, funeral or birthday party booked. That's the point of penal-custody.
social-issues 13/06/2024 at 11:04 pm
Hello Sunshine, yes. Nothing that you have said is unusual. Offenders go on the register and orders are given by the court. The victim is never expected to have attended law-school in order to be protected from criminals. You only go to law-school if you want to argue in court.
.
Remel 05/06/2024 at 8:27 am
Hi I took a plea guilty to abh so I have a pre sentence report awaiting on sentence date is 29th august, would I be allowed to go on a pre booked holiday that was booked before the incident?
social-issues 28/02/2024 at 9:31 pm
Hello hk,

I can't see what the problem is, unless the subject is planning to be unavailable. If what you are saying is that the Probation Service would like to speak to the subject in the middle of his holiday, then there are methods of doing that as Covid has taught us. So, on the whole, unless I misunderstand your question, I think the answer is, no.
Hk 28/02/2024 at 8:43 pm
Hello can a pre-sentence report date be changed if a holiday has been booked prior to the offence and the defendant is planning on pleading not guilty
social-issues 18/12/2023 at 10:57 pm
Hello, there isn't much that can be said about a conflict that we know nothing about. As you yourself have said, taking a weapon out onto the street was a bad idea. It's difficult to improve on that statement. Resolving community conflicts is all but impossible. Both sides need to agree that a resolution is desired (it has nothing to do with dialling 999)
And, from what you have told us, both sides agree on nothing. And, so there is no method for this forum to help you.
Lili 17/12/2023 at 10:49 pm
We have been harrassed for 3 years now over and over without doing anything but ignore they have upset and goaded us by going through my childeren shouting abuse at them and hurting them ect.. for a week straight we had none stop calls from these people with threats you name it.. on the 26th November they was coming too my house with weapons ect and telling us we had a hour too get my childeren out the house I politely said I will not be doing that the phone calls continue so my mum rang 999 she was told too stay in her house and given a ref number a hour later nobody come calls continued people half way up street a few them then shouting my partner ect so he goes out he went out with a airsoft gas BB gun and got out on remand for intimidation fire arm with intent now I have sent his solicitor the threats we had the family’s experience we have had with them the cctv and calls my children and I have had.. will this all go in his favour in all honesty it wasn’t the right chose he chose too go out with but under pressure and not thinking straight just protecting family ect how will this turn out for him he is going guilty but hoping with everything he e have sent in including characters references of the person he is will help Thankyou
Social Issues 15/11/2023 at 10:22 pm
Hello, GB, I'm incredibly sorry to be speaking to you about any of this. And, I'm glad that you are alive. The long and short of reports is that there are a lot of criminals and few prison places. So, if you are a government, better investigate whether or not probation can assist new criminals.

It's all about newcomers.
Gb 13/11/2023 at 12:04 am
Hi my wife has presentence report this week but she has pleaded not guilty I thought it was for only if u pleaded guilty. She was up for attempted murder on me but no been dropped with gbh with intent with a deadly weapon ie a knife as I was stabbed 4 times and left for dead and I been left with a right arm disability that can’t be repaired
Social Issues 12/10/2023 at 9:44 pm
Hello Frightened,

I think your local police force and newspaper have the highest stake in this tragedy behind yours.

This forum has no right to speak about sentencing. You need to be a magistrate or a judge. So, let's try something else. Let's suggest that prison is the best place for dangerous people. And then let's consider a self-confessed strangler. Justice doesn't always go to plan. But, there is a large arrow pointing to where a self-confessed stranger needs to be kept.
Frightened 12/10/2023 at 7:17 pm
Hi. My husband of 26 years has pleaded guilty to abh, threats to disclose sexual images, none fatal strangulation, controlling & coercive behaviour, breach of bail, sexual assault by penetration & section 4a stalking. He made his plea 3 days before trial & will have spent 6 months on remand when he gets sentenced Do you think he's likely to be let straight out on licence?
Social Issues 04/10/2023 at 10:44 pm
Hello Cara, I've made a mistake. You are not asking about guilt you are asking about sentencing mitigation. Well, the short answer is that your emails are totally irrelevant. The defence isn't going to restart the trial at a sentencing hearing. If their client has pleaded guilty he has pleaded guilty. It's a bit like a goal or no goal. Luckily, courts haven't invented VAR, yet!
Social Issues 04/10/2023 at 10:24 pm
Hello Cara, you're right. A defence team can use any method to win for its client. But, first the team needs to exist. And there is no evidence that your ex has such a team. Secondly, doing criminal harm isn't normally OKed by conversation. This is an on going issue "she wanted me to do it" and all that. It hasn't been resolved yet. But, it's getting there.

On balance, my personal view is: if he did it, there is evidence and a complaint, there is a reasonable chance of jail and conditions. Yes.
Cara05 04/10/2023 at 4:29 pm
My ex partner has been on judges remand since April 23. He has pleaded guilty to 2 non fatal strangulations on myself. He has previous sentences for violence against women and is due to be sentenced on the 11th October. The CPS have been provided copies of emails I gave sent him in prison not relating to the crime will these be used in sentencing as they came from his defence. I want to go to the sentencing but don’t want to be shamed by the judge or his defence or press in the crown court. They are awaiting his pre sentence report. Are these emails now relevant and can they stop me get the restraining order i’ve asked for as he’s a dangerous man
Social Issues 03/10/2023 at 10:19 pm
Judges and magistrates can use reason and experience to reach a conclusion. They don't have to rely on the opinion of a Probation Officer.
Social Issues 03/10/2023 at 10:16 pm
Well, perhaps. But, a report is not necessary. So, it's unlikely.
Query 03/10/2023 at 9:11 pm
can a case be dropped if they haven't delivered a pre sentencing reports in time before sentencing?
Social Issues 28/09/2023 at 11:48 pm
Hello Graham, nobody here will have any idea how likely a court will go along with the idea of a community order. To be honest, your enquiry is a brilliant example of the need for a court. Think about it the other way around. How would you deal with a person looking at indecent images?
Graham33 28/09/2023 at 6:23 pm
Hi I have pleaded guilty to attempted sexual communication with a child and idencent images of children I have already e gages with safer lives and stop it now my pre sentence report recommends a 18 month community order what chance of getting it
Social Issues 22/09/2023 at 10:28 pm
Hello Anna, does your brother know why he has this image on his phone?

The short answer is probably no, depending what the image is of. If it's something really terrifying, then maybe there is a case.

But, getting back to our origin, why is he looking at bad images?
Anna 21/09/2023 at 2:25 pm
Hi , my brother is being charged for having an 1 a grade photo on his phone. He 23 , no previous convictions, do you think it’s likely he will go to prison?
I know it’s probably not your place to say but I just want to know if you think it’s likely.
Social Issues 09/05/2023 at 7:43 am
Hello cinders, this isn't the purpose of the report. It's to manage offenders not diagnose their conditions. But, if the subject mentions a condition to the officer then it might be taken into account and it might not. It would depend on whether or not the officer supposed it relevant. That could be unlikely when you think about it.
Cinders 07/05/2023 at 8:30 am
Can a pre sentence report diagnose a person with autism and adhd? If yes, how would they do this? How many appointments will the patient have, how many doctors will make that diagnosis?
Social Issues 19/03/2023 at 5:31 pm
Hello d, pre sentence reports aren't the kinds of things which get challenged. They're opinions. It's the probation officer's opinion of how easily an offender can be managed. You can't change somebody's opinion. It just is what it is. The best thing for your son to do is not commit offences.
Social Issues 19/03/2023 at 5:26 pm
Hello Ju, I'm sorry, we don't have any idea what the Restraining Order was for or how he breached it.

This isn't really a matter for this forum. It's a matter for a court. We aren't in any kind of position to advise on this. The one thing that I would say about all court orders, though, is that breaching them is a really, really bad idea. They're alternatives to custody. So, the alternative to an order has to be worse, by definition. It's not in the recipient's interest to breach an order.
ju 15/03/2023 at 3:30 pm
my partner went to court and he has breached his ro and his conditional discharge has to have PSR what do you think the outcome will be it's apparently gone to b band ?
Social Issues 10/03/2023 at 11:18 pm
Hello Millie, we don't know why a second report is being done. But, the most logical explanation is that the first one hinted at a medical condition. Had that been the case, the court will always want to know the details. And that can't be achieved without a second examination.
Millie88 10/03/2023 at 10:00 pm
My partner is in HMP was found guilty and is awaiting sentencing, he has had one PSR done and is now having another PSR with a Dr why would this be?!
Is it a bad sign?
Billyshears 24/02/2023 at 4:15 pm
Convicted for an offence that can carry prison sentence sexual offences act
First time offence aged 64 no previous
Psr recommends no custodial judge harsh
Diagnosis of autism
What’s likely to happen
Social Issues 27/01/2023 at 8:33 am
Hello Jay, in this type of case, it won't be a judge. (Judges do sit in magistrates' courts. But, not in cases like this.) It will be a magistrate. As for what the sentence will be, we can't predict. I would have liked to express optimism. But, neither judges nor magistrates like it when people breach court orders. So, there is some hope in what you've said. But, not in all of it. Good luck.
jay97 26/01/2023 at 11:29 pm
hi sorry should of stated it was a non molerstation order an broken windows had a pre sentence report today there adviseing commiunty order how likely will the judge at the magistrates be to follow the psr do you know it is also first offence to
Social Issues 26/01/2023 at 6:32 pm
Hello Jay,

I'm afraid that we've no idea. We don't know anything about the order that you've breached, nor what you've damaged.

I wouldn't elaborate in this forum, if I were you. But, you must be able to see that depending upon the severity of your misdeeds, the results could range from the minor to the severe. I suppose that's the whole point of having a judge.
jay97 26/01/2023 at 1:05 am
hi i have psr tommorow for criminal damage an breach of a court order 3 time i was alcohol dependent when this happend as id just lost my father since then i have done detox an am currently geting my life together an its my first offence will i go to jail thank you
Social Issues 13/01/2023 at 10:52 pm
I would write to the Justice Department and ask it. It's possible that a pre sentence report is not appropriate in this case. And, that may be a reason for never producing one. Agencies are really bad at communicating with one another.
WhiskeyJack 11/01/2023 at 10:49 am
How long after conviction in Crown Court should a Pre-Sentence Report be submitted for sentencing. It is now 7 months since he was convicted. Sentencing has now been cancelled 3 times due to the Pre-Sentence Report not being done. He was already on remand and will not be leaving for a very long time. But without sentencing there is no closure for anyone. How can this be resolved?
Social Issues 07/12/2022 at 10:59 pm
Hello, if your partner is pleading guilty then the judgement has nothing whatsoever to do with the pcr. The judge will just do whatever he or she thinks is right. (That's a good reason not to do bad things.)
Mandz 05/12/2022 at 7:10 pm
Hi my partner is currently on remand for GBH. He had his psr meeting today and they advised that they’ll be making a recommendation for a suspended sentence (this is his first conviction). How likely is it for the judge, in CC, to go along with this recommendation?
Social Issues 17/11/2022 at 11:42 pm
The second best thing that you can do is not breach court orders. Magistrates and judges really hate it when people breach court orders. And, it's not all that difficult to imagine why they hate it. Is it?
Social Issues 17/11/2022 at 11:36 pm
Hello Jimmy, the best thing that you can do is produce evidence that your ex asked you to breach the order.
Jimmy 16/11/2022 at 10:02 am
I have been back to court twice now and been on GPS tag for 4month and Im been sentenced for harassment no violence or threats. And it's been ajourned for pre sentence report at magistrates court. What could the realistic outcome be it's about a ex whome I went to see whilst on non melistation order and breached it twice but on some occasions she asked me to come meet her.
jimmy 04/10/2022 at 6:09 pm
Hey, ive got sentencing at a mags court tomorrow did the psr and they recommended a community order as first time offending etc etc, is this likely to happen? thanks!
Social Issues 24/09/2022 at 10:25 pm
Please, could I just say to the guys who enjoy a good punch-up, that it all changes when you have kids?

When you have kids, then you have a family. And kicking some stranger's head, in an alleyway, is no longer a priority.

I don't know how many scrappers there are out there who understand this.
Social Issues 24/09/2022 at 10:06 pm
Hello Hannah, I'm afraid that we don't know. It depends on whether or not your dad is a scary, bad man, who has been to prison for half his life or a sweetie who hit a man, by mistake, while queuing up for a burger at an unexpectedly busy music festival. The answer is: we just don't know. Sorry.
Social Issues 21/06/2022 at 11:42 pm
Hello again, Lotty, in terms of whether or not a
PSR would help your boyfriend or not, it's not certain that it would, no. If he hadn't shown up for his court-appointed responsibilities, then it's far less likely that any court, CC or not, would grant him leniency.
Social Issues 21/06/2022 at 11:30 pm
Hello Lotty, it's not certain that the Magistrate's Court would be willing to hear this case, if your boyfriend had not shown up before. (Why should it?)

As far as Crown Court is concerned, yes, judges do have available to them sentences far in excess of those available to magistrate. But, there is a good reason for that. The cases are likely to be far more serious.

Magistrates dont always have to hand over to CC.
Lotty 20/06/2022 at 10:26 pm
Hiya, my partner breached a SRO and missed his hearing at the magistrates. He wants to plead guilty and hand himself in. Since missing his court date, over a year has lapsed and wishes to take ownership of his wrong doings. His legal aid lawyer said the judge said on the day of his hearing "if he pleaded guilty, he would have been sent to crown court". From my understanding, a case being sent to crown court means a higher sentence which he clearly wishes to avoid. However his legal aid lawyer has said this all depends on the judge on the day and you may or may not be sent to the CC. In terms of a pre-sentence report, would this help his case stay in the magistrates, taking into consideration how he feels about it now, has responsibilities such as work and family to look after?
Social Issues 29/04/2022 at 11:09 pm
Hello, court bail and police bail are two different types of bail. It's very likely that your original police bail had those conditions. Until the police bail expires those conditions will remain.
Dragon Queen 28/04/2022 at 2:22 pm
After pleading guilty in a magistrates court and being released on unconditional bail, can the police still make a person attend and register at the police station. This wasn't stipulated by the magistrate.
Social Issues 30/03/2022 at 12:33 pm
Hello James, you don't appear to have asked many questions. Yes, it could be seven counts for seven hypothetical victims. A court has to decide several things. Is the sentence reflective of the gravity of the offence and is the law-abiding public sufficiently protected? There seems to be some issue with your refusal to believe people when they tell you that you've had a seizure. Whether or not that's part of some other condition, I'd be the last person to know. My greatest sympathy is with the families of the two victims. I trust that the judge will come to the correct conclusion, whatever that may be.
James 28/03/2022 at 11:17 pm
I should add that I am now 37 and have been in full time employment for over 17 years and part time before that during school/college. Parents will also be writing a pre-sentence report that my barrister will send to the judge. I have serious concerns that imprisonment could make epilepsy considerably worse which may also impact on my mental health. Aggression is something that is a symptom of epilepsy and medication.
James 28/03/2022 at 11:07 pm
I am an epileptic, have no previous convictions, in full time employment and live with retired parents partly funding their lifestyle, also completed a work funded level 3 NVQ. In 2018 I had a car accident resulting in a head on collision and seriously injuring two people in the oncoming vehicle. I felt fine that day and as far as I knew hadn’t had a seizure since July 2015, when I surrendered my license for the required 12 months. This has only just made it to the Crown Court and so a lot of points raised in cross examination were not easy to remember, I was found guilty and await sentencing, the part that complicates things is that earlier on in 2018 I had a seizure that I didn’t know about, however paramedics were called and they advised me to speak to my doctor and surrender my licence, as at the time I did not think it was a seizure, I did not speak with my doctor, after hearing the evidence in court it became very apparent that it must have been a seizure earlier on in 2018, something I massively regret is that I became aggressive with the paramedics after repeatedly telling them it wasn’t a seizure and the police were called. Unfortunately with epileptics knowledge of what happened before, during and after a seizure is very limited and due to the gap in information the brain tends to try and bridge the gap, essentially filling in the blanks and some of my answers to the prosecution may have sounded like lies. After the trial I spoke with my doctor who agreed that my actions sounded very much like ADHD & Autism, two neurological disorders linked closely with epilepsy and my doctor has referred me for the relevant tests. One aspect with ADHD is shown on the NHS website “taking dangerous risks such as dangerous driving”. The charge is two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, the two counts part is because two people were in the oncoming vehicle, if there were 7 people could that then be 7 counts? My barrister is going to push for a suspended sentence, it could however be up to 5 years imprisonment.
Jock 03/03/2022 at 6:31 pm
And lol before you have a go the question marks are supposed to of been rolling laughing faces lol
Social Issues 12/10/2021 at 11:46 pm
Hello Carly. In short we have no idea what a judge will decide. We haven't witnessed the burglaries. Not having been caught before is only half an advantage. (Judges aren't stupid.) A first offence is supposed to be a mistake not a statistic. Be honest with me. Are you looking for advice or reassurance?
My advice is don't commit crimes and don't burgle houses. My reassurance is: If you've burgled houses and committed crimes and are in front of a judge then: good luck.
carlyreynolds 12/10/2021 at 8:18 pm
Been charged with burglary and two attempted burglaries never been in trouble before aged 33 what is chance of jail. In Your view what is more serious burglary and two attempted burglaries or two burglaries.
Social Issues 03/10/2021 at 11:48 pm
Hello Frankie. Try looking at this the other way round. Let's suppose that we have people going about the place burgling other people's houses. Now, let's suppose that you are a judge. What would you look for? Who would you have most sympathy with? In a way, you could say that a judge is almost the exact social opposite of a burglar. So, it might be a good idea to quit robbing people's houses. That's the whole point of a court system.
frankie89 01/10/2021 at 4:22 pm
I have been charged with Burglary of residential dwelling I have Asperger's I am 35 never been charged with anyone before barrister requested a pre sentence report what is chance of jail sentence.
Social Issues 15/09/2021 at 10:45 am
Hello Light, the problem with young offenders is typically the people that they hang out with who are troublemakers. The police and criminal justice system are very, very, very familiar with this type of offending. And I would, above all, suggest that your son has nothing whatever to do with it. Crime is often seen as a revolving door and I'd keep your son away from it. If the court sets him free (and it might do that) speak to your neighbourhood sergeant about spending some time with your son and giving him a few pointers in life. It sounds as if he needs them.
Social Issues 15/09/2021 at 8:00 am
Hello Mop, a suspended sentence and immediate custody are basically the same sentence. The only difference is whether or not the judge feels that either he or she can or will suspend it. It's very similar to heads or tails when spinning a coin. Things to look at will depend on how empathetic or reformed the Probation Service view the prisoner as having been. There is an attitude, a reflection and a thoughtfulness involved in being a law-abiding member of society. There is no right to having a sentence suspended. The judge needs to feel that suspending the sentence is the correct thing to do.
Light 10/09/2021 at 11:55 pm
My 14 year old son had adhd he has aggravated burglary
Aggravated twoc
2 counts of criminal damage
First offense
Court now ordered for presentce report does this me Jail
Mop 10/09/2021 at 4:46 pm
Hello, my brother has been charged with concern to supply class A. He has pleaded guilty and has had no previous convictions. The judge said to him that there is a very low chance of getting a suspended sentence but looking at his history allowed pre sentencing report. 3 years custodial is minimum for the offence which is likely as the judge said. Please can you advise what are the chances of getting a suspended sentence
Social Issues 19/08/2021 at 11:07 pm
Hello Romina. In short, no. There are other things. For example, there is a statute of limitations, after which previous crimes can no longer be prosecuted. But, there is no time limit on which a charge must be brought to court. Things in this area have changed in respect of leaving suspects on bail. But, that's an entirely different conversation. Judges are sometimes sympathetic when a case has taken a number of years to reach court. How each judge will react is uncertain. But, whatever happens, judges are not unaware that some cases take several years to resolve.
Romina Falcone 19/08/2021 at 12:25 am
Hello,
my husband pleaded guilty in April.
He was due to have a hearing in July which was postponed because the judge was in another trial.
The lawyer says he's been put on the list.
But isn't there a time limit to have a sentence?
Can the judge decide to give him the sentence date even in a year?
thank you
Romina
Social Issues 18/08/2021 at 9:20 am
Also Bugi, I should add that a pre sentence report isn't necessarily a mitigation. It's a record of what the probation officer is thinking. That could be good, bad or neutral. That largely depends on you. But, as you quite rightly point out, the judge is under no obligation to heed what's inside it. And that brings us back to my original reply.
Social Issues 17/08/2021 at 2:48 pm
Hello Bugi. It's pretty unusual for graduates to get involved in street crime. (I know that you aren't a graduate, yet. But, all the same.) Judges sometimes remark on how sorry they are to see all of that potential lost. Unfortunately, we know nothing about your plans for disorder or your reasons and practices for storing weapons. So, we can say virtually nothing about how a judge is likely to react. But, try thinking about it the other way around. If someone came before you having planned disorder and stored weapons (and you were a judge) what would you do?
Bugi 16/08/2021 at 4:06 pm
Hi, I’ve been give a deal from the prosecution team and I’ve accepted. The deal is pleading guilty to 3 charges. Conspiracy to commit violent disorder, having a bladed article and imitation firearm with intent to cause fear. Im 18 years old and I’m starting university next month, I’ve never been involved with the police before this is my first time. What are the chances that the judge accepts my pre-sentencing report? And gives me a suspended sentence ?
Social Issues 08/08/2021 at 11:50 am
Hello Huncho. We can't say anything about the sentencing. We don't know anything about the robberies. But, the correct time to worry about the workings of the police and criminal justice system is before you commit a crime not afterwards. Afterwards it's too late. Think about it this way. When it's your turn -- you commit a crime.

Then it's the judge's turn. That's the situation you're now in.

You've got a real choice now: A whole life of crime or a normal working life. Think about it really hard. This is an important moment for you and your future. Who do you want to be in charge of your adult life?

You're 16. You're young. Learn a trade and keep your nose clean from now on. And, if anybody asks you to get involved in crime tell them to get lost.
Huncho 05/08/2021 at 9:02 pm
Hi I have found guilty of 2 robberies and possession of a bladed article I’m 16 years old this is my first offence the has adjourned it for a pre sentence report is custodial sentence looking likely?
Social Issues 30/07/2021 at 6:01 pm
Hello twin. Essentially what you're doing is appealing against the sentence. To appeal you apply for leave to appeal to the Court of Appeal. Essentially, your grounds for appeal are that the length of the sentence is excessive by 83 days. Your appeal will either be accepted or rejected. But, even if it is accepted that doesn't mean the days will be removed. The Appeal Court judges might come up with an entirely different solution.
twin 29/07/2021 at 11:47 am
hello my partner has been in prison for two and a half years and is due to be released this december, when he was sentenced he was granted 83 days off his time due to tag time. in court his barrister never brought it up and the judge never took the time off even though he was the one that granted it, my partner never got the chance to mention it as he was only allowed to video link to the court and it was cut off just after sentencing, he fired his barrister after court and has been trying to get his days taken off for the past year now but due to covid noone is listening and he is now being told its to late to take the time off as it was never raised in court. he still has the paper work that confirms the days that should be removed but we are unsure if we are fighting a losing battle.
Social Issues 05/07/2021 at 2:22 pm
Hello Lockie. It's pretty difficult to understand everything that you've written. But, the general theme seems to be that you have a sleeping sickness, you're deaf and you've been arrested and you don't know why. OK. Well, first of all, where is your lawyer? Or do you need to use the duty solicitor at the police station? Either way, the lawyer should ensure that you have been accommodated in a suitable fashion. I'm afraid that this isn't a suitable medium for helping you to complain about your treatment. You ought to contact the Citizens' Advice Bureau. In the meantime, you shouldn't have any more contact with the police without a suitable lawyer present and if you need to you should make that clear to the officers. And, finally, you should ask for a written copy of everything that is said either by the police or by you, so that you and your solicitor can go over it all in detail. The police should also give you a written description of the reason why they arrested you.
Lockey007 04/07/2021 at 8:00 pm
I am deaf . That l was explain to you that l need help me that l cannot remember what happened by police arrest me to no reason that point l was illness depressed that police arrest by hand to together to back that l don’t know what going on . The police was take me in police car and feeling illness and fell sleep to feeling nothing at all. The police try wake me up to cannot wake me up and so the police push me hard wake me up and pop up that l wake up shock where l am . The police say police station. That l cannot remember what going on ! So through door to sit down fell illness sleep again. Police try wake me up . Then sergeant to view to listen to police officer. But l cannot hear because fell sleep illness down . So that l cannot remember what going on . The sergeant told officers to put cell . And fell illness in bed the office try wake me up but that l was hard to fell sleep illness and black out that point it . So that l was tell truth nothing cannot remember about it . What you try to need help me to complain police try let me down that problem over cannot remember it .
Social Issuesh 01/07/2021 at 1:15 pm
Hello Robbo. I'm sorry, we have no way of knowing what the judge will do. Incidentally, both the defence and the prosecution are entitled to ask for reports. But, it seems a bit late in the day if sentencing is about to begin.
Robbo24 01/07/2021 at 11:49 am
Hi

I have been found guilty of money laundering and conspiracy of avoiding duty (£6.3 million), so judge hasn’t requested pre sentencing reports on me or other defendants, it’s my first offence although I didn’t think my brief gave me the best advice looking back, will judge pass sentencing today or is it likely she will adjourn for reports to be made
Social Issues 30/06/2021 at 11:29 am
Hello Tyrone. Your message is very frank, open and honest. Thank you. As you'll probably already know, the courts do try to assist offenders when there is a realistic prospect of making them honest. But, with drugs offences sometimes this is no longer possible. (The same applies to alcohol related crimes.) Whilst nobody here can comment in which types of sentence or disposal might be considered (those are matters for the Court.) What we can say is that there are limits to the patience of the courts and the Probation Service when it comes to dealing with continuously re-offending individuals. Or, to put it another way, say for example that you were trying to help someone who kept making the same mistake over and over again: What would you do?
Tyrone 26/06/2021 at 11:43 pm
I'm being done for theft of charity box and interference of a viechle I get drunk one day and I robbed a charity box to feed my habbit and I was looking for somewhere to sleep so I found a car unlocked so I fell asleep in it and then got woken up in the car by police and they didn't find the charity box they had enough evidence on me so I pleaded guilty, and previouse year I had a warrant out for missing probation I went for my first appointment then didn't go again they asked for a pre sentence report my previous offences I've got 30 offences but I'm under the mental health team main reason they asked for pre sentence report not looking good to be honest have to go back to court on 1st of July any ideas what's going to happen?
KezzaB 23/05/2021 at 12:52 am
I’m getting charged for malicious communications- my sentencing is soon , will I go to prison? Prosecution are pushing for 9 weeks . What happens at a pre sentencing interview? First offence
Ceejay 18/05/2021 at 9:53 am
My stepson has been told he will see a probation officer for a presentence report. My wife saw a website about bullet points for this report last night but cannot find it now.Can you tell me where I may find it?
Social Issues 17/05/2021 at 7:27 am
Hello, Brum2312, you can write to the court explaining that he doesn't live at your address. At his first appearance in court he will be asked to give his name and address. At that point he will have to confirm that he does not have an address. You can also attend court to check that he doesn't use your address. (PS, I've never heard of an ex brother before.)
Brum2312 14/05/2021 at 7:27 pm
Hi my ex brother had a letter delivered I was told to open it and it’s probation hes put my address down he doesn’t live here I don’t even speak to him what do I do I’m now worried as I’ve left it late and when he goes to Court my address is going to be on the report anyone can view my children’s surnames are the same anyone reading it will think it’s my children’s dad what do I do !
Social Issues 10/05/2021 at 1:47 pm
Hello Lauren, the Probation Service write the report. His solicitor should request that the report be finished as soon as possible. The court is clearly aware that the report is missing because it has postponed the trial. Judges and magistrates can also ask the Probation Service to prepare reports.
Lauren 07/05/2021 at 9:28 pm
My partner is currently in prison and was due to be at court this week how ever it's bin adjourned due to the presentence report not been done. Who is response for that not been done. Thank you
Social Issues 30/03/2021 at 3:29 pm
Hello Ree. We have no idea what a possible sentence might be. First she would need either to plead or be found guilty. And then sentences depend on a whole host of things: guidelines, previous character, previous offences, the seriousness of the crime, what kinds of disposals are appropriate, etc., etc., the list goes on and on....
Ree 29/03/2021 at 12:04 am
Hi my neighbour been charged with 4 charges ..racially aggravated charges and 3 more .. council and police team has been noticing everything they gonna be there to witness .,, police says it’s a strong case against her .. what will be sentence for her . And she has breached her bail condition one ..
Ree 29/03/2021 at 12:02 am
Hi my neighbour been charged with 4 charges ..racially aggravated charges and 3 more .. council and police team has been noticing everything they gonna be there to witness .,, police says it’s a strong case against her .. what will be sentence for her
Social Issues 25/03/2021 at 7:51 am
Hello. A Pre Sentence Report is prepared by the National Probation Service. My suspicion is that if there is a reason, such as preventing a future crime or disorder, the service would have a valid reason for denying your FOI request. There is no guarantee of receiving information under the Act. Eventually, it is the Office of the Information Commissioner that you would complain to. However, a usual (commissioner's) expectation would be that you would first seek an explanation from the Probation Service as to why it hasn't at least replied to your requests.
G 22/03/2021 at 4:45 pm
I have requested in writing and via email a copy of my pre-sentence report under freedom of information act 2000 on 5 separate occasions from prisons and probation service. The last occasion was January 2021. I haven’t received acknowledgment or information requested . What can I do to get a copy, or who do I complain to?
Social Issues 13/02/2021 at 11:10 am
Hello, United99. You can contact the Probation Service by email. It will be sufficient to tell them what you've told us. The Probation Service will be able to work out who your probation officer should have been by itself. I should imagine that it's not unusual for things to go wrong in these days of Covid 19. But, I'm sure that if you show that you've done everything possible to comply with your probation requirements, then I would expect that your explanation would be accepted. If you continue to have difficulty, I would contact the magistrates court as well and let it know that a problem has occured. It's likely that if you are having difficulties then other people are too. Somebody is going to have to look into these difficulties and resolve them. And they can't do that if they are not aware of them.
United99 13/02/2021 at 9:49 am
Hi, I had a PSR appointment arranged for 09:30 this morning via telephone call and didn’t receive any dialling information, just a direct line for the magistrates court which I have tried and offices are closed. I did not receive my phone call at 9:30 this morning and I fear the appointment has now been missed at no fault of my own. What can I do? I was not provided with a contact number, I gave my number to the probation officer on the day of court, which was then adjourned for pre sentence reporting
Social Issues 27/01/2021 at 5:48 pm
Hello AB, if you're on bail now, it seems a remote possibility that you'll be remanded. I can't think of how that could happen unless you do something to cause it. And, I'm pretty sure that you have no intention of doing that. I'm afraid that we have no idea what will happen after sentencing. (But, I notice that you did not ask any questions about sentencing.)
Social Issues 27/01/2021 at 5:43 pm
Hello Jon. We cannot even begin to speculate about what your sentence may or may not be. There are sentencing guidelines and it depends on your previous history and a range of other things. So, the truth is, we don't know.
AB 22/01/2021 at 11:06 pm
I am taking a plea deal for fraud.
It was not premeditated but there is however the fact that prove my guilt.
I am out on bail. Have been since October 2019. What are the chances of me continuing I bail until the report is written by the criminal social worker and sentence is determined by the sheriff ?
Jon 15/01/2021 at 6:56 pm
Ive been conviction of common assault by battery charges domestic violence. Victim claims coking what's my likely sentence as im awaiting pre sentencing
James 07/01/2021 at 1:45 am
Hi I have one of these as my case for drink driving I pleaded guilty for was ajourned till March, I have two previous convictions alcohol related so think that’s why they did it, will they ask me how long I’ve been driving as I was a new driver when i was arrested there was no mention of resitting test in the earlier hearing but I just hope speaking to the probation doesn’t ruin that for me I’m happy the ban and everything else just don’t want to resit test for insurance purposes in future, thanks
Social Issues 15/12/2020 at 3:30 pm
Hello Confused, it sounds to me like the social work report is the property of the court. You would have to ask the court directly to give you a copy of it.

The witness statements are a different issue altogether. Since you've pleaded guilty they are no longer relevant. You don't need them. They would have been disclosed to you in the pre-trial phase of the police investigation. (It looks from what you've written that that is exactly what has happened.) But, since you have pleaded guilty there was no trial so the witness statements are redundant. It would be wise for you to permanently put them out of your mind from now on.
Confused 14/12/2020 at 6:51 pm
Hi, I pleaded guilty to assault as recommended by my lawyer, I had to attend a meeting to have a social report done for the court. The social worker said she couldn’t let me see it and the lawyer said I can go to his office to have a look at it along with copies of witness statements which I haven’t seen, some were read to me. The lawyer said the report didn’t help my case and I was given a supervision order. How can I get copies of these documents.
JOHN 09/12/2020 at 9:54 am
I have just attended a magistrates court and have been referred to the Crown for sentencing. My medical condition ( severe osteoarthritis of both knees, osteoarthritis of the lower spine and neck ) with my knees I have found that I am at risk and have fallen over several times.
The thought of prison scares me to death and also i am vulnerable to others and unable to defend myself
Can you offer any advice
Thank you
Social Issues 01/12/2020 at 1:01 pm
Hello again, Marky. As promised I have been searching for answers to your questions. I have been advised that the Probation Service is able to agree suitable times for you to do your mandatory courses. My advisors didn't mention using Zoom. But, my suspicion is that you can also discuss this with your probation officer. And secondly, I'm told, that where access to your children is making it difficult for you to find the time to do your probation courses you can ask a Family Court to alter your shared custody arrangements. But, my advisors tell me that you should speak to your probation officer first.

In terms of free legal advice my own experience is that it does exist but It's predicated on the law firm being reimbursed by Legal Aid. And Legal Aid is difficult to obtain. I was given a list of family law firms who give free legal advice, although it's an area that I've had dealings with before. So, I already know a bit about it. And finally, although it's not usually recommended, you can present your own case to the Family Court without using a solicitor. I think the last suggestion is one that would only be undertaken by somebody who had no other option. Good luck and I hope this helps.
Social Issues 27/11/2020 at 11:34 pm
Hello Marky.

Anyone can contact the Probation Service, directly. And, if you don't then I'll do it on your behalf. Self righteous people would note that these are all good reasons for not committing crimes in the first place. (So, I'll not make that statement.) I get the impression that this lesson has not eluded you. I don't know the answers to any of your questions. But, I do know how to find them.

But, let me ask you a question.

Let's suppose that you chose not to commit any crimes at all.

Would it be worth avoiding being at such a low point for the sake of abiding by the law? Or is it worth being both a criminal and being in despair?

I appreciate that most people don't think about the consequences of their actions. But, maybe they should. Who knows?

I'll be back with some answers as soon as I get them.

Maybe, in the meantime you could reflect on what I've said.
Marky 27/11/2020 at 11:49 am
Hi I need some advice, I got sentenced yesterday and they said I need to do two courses with the probation officer fir the next 30 months.. I work full time and on Saturday mornings I have my two of my children 3 weekends a month..when will I get a chance to do these? Are they in zoom or do I have to go somewhere? Are they every week? They didn’t tell me anything. They also said that I can only contact my ex of my rounder children via a solicitor or family courts? I don’t have money for either of these and feel I’m at such a low point i won’t see my children at Christmas. There is no one helping me see my babies.I need help to be able to see them.
Social Issues 07/11/2020 at 12:09 pm
Hello Unhappy, in short, the answer to your question is no. The Probation Service has no obligation to keep writing fresh reports. A report is written either at the request of the court or the defence. However, with that said, if you feel that your sentence is unjustified, you can apply for a right of appeal. It's quite likely that such a right will be granted. But, I should point out that in recent years, appeals have been heard in which the Appeal Court not only disagreed with the appellant, it also increased the sentence. So, whilst I cannot and do not intend to try to assess whether or not your own sentence is justified or not, what I would suggest is that you consider whether or not you are in a position to be objective about your punishment. You need to bear in mind that the view of the Appeal Court judges may well be very different from yours.
unhappy 04/11/2020 at 3:24 pm
I had a probation pre sentence report written seven and a half months before sentence, my circumstances had changed dramatically before the sentence date.

I asked probation to write a new report because of this, they refused.

I believe my sentence was harsh, therefore should probation have submitted a new report?
unhappy 04/11/2020 at 3:20 pm
I had a pre-sentence probation report written 7 months before I was sentenced.
All my circumstances had changed before sentencing. I asked probation write a new one because of this, probation refused.

The sentence was harsher than expected, does probation have a duty to inform the courts of changes with a new report?
Social Issues 18/09/2020 at 9:03 am
Hello again, Lee. I should have added that the whole point of speaking to a probation officer is to assess the degree of risk that an offender poses. And, to be honest, even with a caution (which doesn't exist, at the moment) and with representation and without replying to the probation officer's questions, the probation officer could still come to the view that the offender poses the maximum risk. This isnt like a court trial. There isn't a prosecution and a defence. The probation officer can write whatever he or she feels is correct in the report. There is no jury.

When and if ever you do write to the charity that I mentioned, you might like to ask them to consider whether or not your legal advice had been sufficient. If it has been, there is always the possibility (however unpalatable for you that it may be) that the judge and the probation officer were right.
Social Issues 18/09/2020 at 8:33 am
Hello, Lee. When you speak to a probation officer you are not under oath or under caution. One is to signify that you won't lie to the court and the other is to appraise you of your rights (mainly to silence.) Incidently, if you believe that the Probation Service should also be bound by law to caution offenders before interviewing them, it would require a change in the law. But, it's a fascinating idea. You should write to the charity the Howard League about it. I work with them sometimes. It would require something of a campaign to achieve. Unfortunately, I don't know anything about you or your crime. So, I don't know whether the judge or the probation officer made correct choices. If you're going to mount a campaign, you'll need a sympathetic subject to form the basis of it. (You can still be the brains behind the project even if you aren't the public face of the campaign. It's one for you to think about and to be honest with yourself about.)

In respect of your direct question: Yes. A probation officer can ask you anything and write anything about you in a report. And, no. Unlike in the pre-trial phase of a criminal investigation, where everybody has a right to counsel, there is no automatic right to be represented at a probation meeting. You do raise a fascinating issue. Unfortunately, I'm a criminal justice campaigner and not a prison rights campaigner. So, I shan't be taking this case up. But, you can.
Lee 17/09/2020 at 8:31 am
Hi I have recently pleaded guilty in magistrates court (as advised by the judge himself) and was hoping to receive just a fine. However the judge ordered I do a probation interview prior to sentencing which I did and fully cooperated. In the interview the officer asked me to describe my version of events for the crime and I quickly did. I assumed this was just an overview and the details improvised were incorrect as I never realised this would be pitched in court to me. in the sentencing afterwards the judge used the comments in that interview to say I said different things to the case file. I didn't know that I was under oath or arrest that I had to explain in full detail then he sentenced me with a more severe sentence because my version of events in the probation interview were different to the case. How can that be correct. Is this allowed? This was not explained to me and this is my first ever experience of a court proceeding so have no idea. I'm guessing there is nothing I can do but I need to know for peace of mind if this is how the law system works. If it is I feel for people who have to deal with this. It's poor system.
Social Issues 30/08/2020 at 10:03 am
Hamish, the website prisonersfamilies.org has current information about how courts are remanding either into custody or on bail, during the pandemic.

As far as I can tell, the decision, from the look of that website, is not logically any different from the one to be made before the pandemic. Or put differently, current, publicly available information doesn't seem to be suggesting that the pandemic is making it easier to get bail.
Social Issues 30/08/2020 at 9:34 am
Hamish, you seem to have provided the answer to your own question, or most of it. What you've asked is essentially: Will I be given a community sentence, if I do not qualify for one? Nobody here will know. But, from what you've said it looks as if you've kept your difficulties away from your legal aid lawyer. Obviously, defence lawyers are there to help defendants. They have a legal obligation to do so. I expect that what happens to you now is up to the court. But, I think that you already know that.
Social Issues 30/08/2020 at 9:25 am
KT, what you're asking for is straightforward legal advice. Plenty of law firms give free legal advice. If I were you I would search for one of them.
Hamish 26/08/2020 at 6:01 am
I'm 2 days past deadline to provide suitable address for community detention, my preferred address is awaiting auckland level 2 before they're fully committ, second adrress not as ideal, not helping legal aid lawyer not answering anything. Covid obviously unprecedented times would anyone no if I'd have grounds to further remand sentencing. ??
Kt 70 23/08/2020 at 8:05 pm
My daughter has been sent to prison after being found guilty. The judge did not get pre sentencing report.
We are devastated as this was not expected. My daughter is afraid that if she appeals and fails she will serve even longer.
Social Issues 28/07/2020 at 10:31 pm
Hello, there appear to be a couple of issues with your question. What you appear to be saying is that your fiance has pleaded guilty and has been remanded before sentencing. If I were someone close to this case, I'd prepare myself for a disappointment. I'm sorry not to be able to make a more hopeful comment.
Mon 28/07/2020 at 6:48 pm
My fiancé has peeled guilty to petty crime affences and is now on judges remand he’s been in there over a month now we’ll.

Will a pre sentencing report help he’s sent acing?

He suffers from mental health and fiscal disabilities and has had the worst life ever.
Social Issues 10/07/2020 at 6:51 pm
Hello Star

I'm not a legal representative. But, I am a criminal justice campaigner.

Anybody can write to the National Probation Service, giving any details that they wish to give. Whether or not the Probation Service, as a whole, acts on it is another matter entirely. I suspect that you were given an investigating officer, when your ex committed his offence. If this had happened to me, I would contact the investigating officer again and explain that I did not feel sufficiently protected by the current injunctions, because they had been breached a number of times.

I'm afraid that I didn't understand what you meant by working with solicitors or getting away with convictions. However, what seems to be clear from your message is that you don't feel safe. I'd also contact womensaid.org.uk I'm sure an advisor from there can help you to make take the right steps.
star 01/07/2020 at 4:43 pm
My ex partner has breached a non mol order and has pleaded guilty. He has been released on bail and is due back in court for a pre sentence.

He has got away with convictions in the past as he works with solicitors and gets character refrences and i am worried he will also do the same now. Can i contact the probation team and make them aware of this.
maiming101 16/03/2020 at 3:15 am
Possession charges, 2 prior DUI’s (over 15 years ago) contributing to delinquency of a minor and reckless driving charge (2 years ago) are all going to be in a pre-sentence report for a man who was recently convicted of two DWI’s (the same day) along with reckless driving and failure to report an accident. With Heroine and cocaine in his system he hit a girl head on. Was charged with MAIMING but not convicted. In your opinion, what type of punishment is this guy facing?
Social Issues 13/03/2020 at 9:05 am
If a person is on his 3rd conviction ( criminal damage to my daughters mobile phone and harassment ) his 3rd now for the unprevoked common assault on my daughters boyfriend for which the rwport is needed. Will the judge / probation officer be made aware of his history, will it have any impact on the officers recommendation. And knowing the ex's narcissistic behaviour with the caff caffcass officer during the family court who did seem to side with him, will he be able to manipulate the situation to his advantage again now his freedom may be at risk. He will cry he's concerned about his nearly 2 year old daughter but in all honestyhe only uses her as a way to still attemptto control my daughter.
Bladey2020 - 11-Mar-20 @ 8:13 PM



Hello Bladey2020

I'm not convinced that this website is answering queries any more. It would be a shame if they stopped, because I found the service hugely interesting and quite unlike anything that I've ever seen before.


I'm a social campaigner. I'm not a legal professional. But, there are some points in your question that are of general public interest.

The judge does of course have direct access to a defendant's criminal record. The Probation Service does too.

Neither of them will have access to the defendant's previous attitude. They won't know what he's said to people or what people have said to him, unless it's a matter of public record. If there are previous reports, the Probation Service can read those.

But, these are all people who are very experienced in dealing with criminals, especially repeat offenders.

One of the obvious questions for anybody, you (don't need to be a judge), when it comes to dealing with a repeat offender is:

Why did being arrested and punished last time not put an end to this person's offending behaviour?


And, I'm pretty sure that the probation officer will ask him that, directly.
Bladey2020 11/03/2020 at 8:13 pm
If a person is on his 3rd conviction ( criminal damage to my daughters mobile phone and harassment ) his 3rd now for the unprevoked common assault on my daughters boyfriend for which the rwport is needed. Will the judge / probation officer be made aware of his history, will it have any impact on the officers recommendation. And knowing the ex's narcissistic behaviour with the caff caffcass officer during the family court who did seem to side with him, will he be able to manipulate the situation to his advantage again now his freedom may be at risk. He will cry he's concerned about his nearly 2 year old daughter but in all honesty he only uses her as a way to still attempt to control my daughter.
Flower543 26/02/2020 at 7:55 pm
Can a pre sentence be bad for you? How likely are you to avoid jail from a pre sentence report? Does the whole of probation decide on recommendations or just one probation officer that works with you? Also if the judge ordered a pre sentence report that was initially going to sentence you to jail on that day but then asked for a pre sentence report and to xine back on another date to decide is this more likely to mean avoiding jail or a lesser sentence, and what gets put in your your pre sentence report?thanks
Social Issues 22/11/2019 at 9:33 am
In response to my own comment, there is a judge, Stephen Ashurst, QC, at Teeside Crown Court, who is currently reported in the Hartlepool Mail, to be giving a public master class on this process. The judge is concerned that a convict, Philip Metcalf, might not be suitable to be returned to his family. A restraining order against him has been lifted. The judge, fearing that Metcalf's partner may be in need of the court's protection, has instructed the police and the Probation Service to examine the family's circumstances and prepare reports for the court so that decisions can be made.

I'm going to keep copies of the article. So, next time (and there will be a next time) I read about a convicted wifebeater returning from prison and mangling the self-same woman once again, I will be able to reasonably object that this situation should never have been allowed to happen in the first place.
Rufus 19/11/2019 at 12:06 pm
This section the "who sees this report" is incorrect,

I have had a pre sentencing report from the probation service, neither my solicitor or myself where given a copy of it before the trial, so we could not object to anything in it as being incorrect. The report was also read out in court by the probation officer who compiled it so again the information you are giving is incorrect.

I was given an indication of what sentence the probation service were recommending by word of mouth but that is all.
Social Issues 10/11/2019 at 9:59 am
Why are wifebeating convicts not managed properly by the Probation Service?

Take Mark Power, from Birmingham, who was imprisoned for DV, released and went home and threw the self-same girlfriend downstairs, breaking her back.

Almost identically, Damian Hudson, from Hartlepool was severally accused, but not convicted of DV, until his girlfriend jumped out of a window to escape. That time he was convicted and imprisoned. (He is in prison now.) The same girlfriend is widely reported, in local news, to want to live with him upon his prison release (similar to the case above.)

Objective, independent readers might speculate about the great benefits to be gained from living entirely separately from serial violent domestic offenders. But, be that as it may, why did the Probation Service and the police not prevent Mark Power from throwing his girlfriend down stairs? He was already a known violent convict. And, she and Damian's girlfriend were already known vulnerable victims.

And, why are the two services not planning right now, to prevent Damien Hudson from throwing his girlfriend out of another window, as soon as he is released from prison? Because, that is precisely what he will do.
Minnie9090 29/10/2019 at 12:44 pm
My ex partner is due to have a pre sentencing report done. He is still dping the crime which he was arrested for (drug dealing) all of this happened 10 months ago and i have only just found out. He has asked for a copy of my daughters birth certificate to prove he is her father. He doesnt see her. He doesnt pay for her but i know that he is trying to use her as a get out of jail card. He has also said the reason he had the amount on him is that he has artheritus. He does have metal work in one of his legs but not been diagnosed with this condition. He is just lying to get his way out of it all. I need to no if i can contact the probation team to make them aware of all of this.
nags 31/01/2019 at 11:39 am
My 38 year old son is awaiting sentencing for GBH (section 18) pending probation reports.
I believe his behaviour is partly due to a mental health issue.
He was in a serious car accident some years ago and suffered a brain injury but other than that his condition is undiagnosed, and he may appear normal.
Is there any way I can draw attention to his need for psychiatric help?
Pixie 31/07/2018 at 11:53 am
I was given a probation order in 1984 is there any way I can obtain the report?
Kumar 09/05/2018 at 2:13 am
I did a pre sentence report in 2015, it was a horrid report as I didn't want to work with anyone. I have done my sentence and worked with probation. Unfortunately now I cannot get a house as they see this report and turn away straight away. The report is misleading to my sentence. Why can some organisation see this report and should probation change or amend this report now I have come out the negative situation I was in. I could do with some help as this report is the only thing that is not letting me move on in life.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 20/03/2018 at 11:11 am
As outlined int he article, a pre-sentence report is intended to give the sentencing court some understanding as to why you committed the offence, how you feel about it now, and what your background, family and work circumstances are. Using this information, the court will decide the most appropriate sentence to give you. It is important to note that the court does not have to go along with the recommendation in the report, and the probation officer’s opinion is not binding on the type of sentence you get. Therefore, it is impossible to anticipate what sentence you may receive.
mars 19/03/2018 at 12:25 pm
hi i have pleaded guilty to6 counts of stealing from employer charges which was stock that was $2000 which i paid off straight away and the judge has ordered a pre sentence report does this mean that i will be facing probation or community service charges only or is there any chance my lawyer will have any luck getting me a section 10 i have cooperated with the probation officer and i have a clean criminal and driving record i am currently studying nursing is there any chance any good will come from this conviction
CourtroomAdvice Editor 23/01/2018 at 12:53 pm
Your solicitor or legal representative can give you a better indication regarding whether you are likely to get a prison sentence and what that sentence might be.
Houghton 22/01/2018 at 10:25 pm
I was found guilty of conspiring to blackmail in dec 2017 but judge adjourned sentancing til feb 2018. Does this mean instant prison even tho we were found guilty . last time i was in trouble was 1995 . please help my 2 kids are worried as is my wife
CourtroomAdvice Editor 21/11/2017 at 2:26 pm
We cannot predict what a court may decide. Neither can your solicitor predict what may happen. He/she is hoping that your sentence will be suspended, but much depends upon the decision made in court on the day.
SoKi 21/11/2017 at 2:01 am
I have been for my pre sentencing report & they have recommended I do not go to jail. I also have a mental health assessment that says suicide risk is high with a prison sentence but low without a prison sentence, what are the chances I will go to jail ? I am very scared and have 3 children who need me, please can I have some advice my solicitor wont tell me what may happen, they just say they will ask for a suspended as I have no pervious, no convictions/arrests etc since this incident, nothing at all before this.
Coach89 19/11/2017 at 9:38 pm
I have issue person how made false accusations that made against myself and the person changed there story so many times I lost count and this be case now from at less 4 mouths now and awake the person did accepted money for do this then pulled out of accept money but not sure if still fraud happen but I am aware for this false accusations happen and the person changes their mind about it often This person as seriously disability teenager son so I be very aware for prison sentence as be really effort him so I just look for some kind of sentence scale in Scottish law for this crimes take place against myself for possible of fraud atm or in past and false accusations/perjury. Wee put of background to the stroy I was working with the teenager how parent is acting how behind this criminal behaviour at swimming club and I have Cerebral Palsy and mild Autism and as outcome from this I had very high anxiety to stage were have got on train to try run away from it all at my lows point. I have tried to sort this with person make this false accusations about myself but meet with zero respect from it all and still continue. I feel in my mind this person need face justice of actions but don’t really what them go to prison of it as effort there teenager son badly and known I feel bad for that be the case mainly at times like Christmas if known patient is in prison.
Fouc 20/10/2017 at 7:14 pm
Just a bit of advice they now call anything you carry an offensive weapon,my daughter 1got caughtnwith one 6yrs ago then was stressed last week with2 she has mental health issues and I've been desperately trying to get her out of where she lives she's beaten beaten on several occasions,now there are gangs going around picking on her,we had the court case ajurned for a week for probation reports any tips would help
Alex 11/08/2017 at 9:31 pm
I have pleaded guilty to facilitation and the judge did not ask for pre sentencing report. I have no previous conviction and never been arrested. the facilitation was not for commercial gain it was actually my wife who was facing prosecution back home. my lawyer is not very helpful and I really don't know what to do and how to seek guidance. Is there away from going back to court and ask for pre- sentencing report before the sentencing date.
Grinch123 09/08/2017 at 2:17 am
Is it the same because it's crown court? His guidelines were 18 months max or minimum suspended sentence. With time off for pleading guilty early. I've wrote a letter and he has and also got character references. Is there anything else you can take that makes things look better for him. He's changed his life around since then we found out we was having a baby 5 months ago, just moved home & he's started his own business. Will they take that into account??
PBude Editor 08/08/2017 at 3:45 pm
@Grinch123 - usually probation and the judge are pretty much in line with each other. But every judge is different too with diferent opinions!
Grinch123 08/08/2017 at 12:50 pm
My boyfriend was arrested in November for intent to supply.
He was released without charge pending enquiries. They later charged him and he pleaded guilty for intent to supply 2.5 grams of cocaine. The court Probabtion officer have applied for suspended sentence and community work. As I'm now pregnant, we've moved home and he's started his own business. Do the court always go by the Probabtion officers ?
JRT77 Editor 31/05/2017 at 11:54 am
@D - the judge usually goes with the pre-sentence report (but not always). The report gives an indiction of the punishment being considered. It's used as a general guideline. You'll find the judge is unlikely to deviate far from it.
D 30/05/2017 at 5:06 pm
My boyfriend has been remanded for attempted robbery on his trail it was said that there was no evidence against him at all he also had is pre sentence report and it was said that this prionser should not be sentenced . What do you think will happen at his court date
Zozzle 08/05/2017 at 12:33 pm
My partner has been remanded awaiting sentencing for possession of a bladed article he rang the police on himself as he is severely depressed and has a gambling problem and owes a fair amount of money they are awaiting a pre sentence report from probation. He has been out of trouble for four years and we have a lovely baby girl he also took on my other three children and are due to marry next year. I'm hoping he gets a suspended sentence doe anyone have any idea if they will take that information as that he was just in a bad way and needed help?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 15/02/2017 at 10:43 am
Sentencing for any supply case is complicated and will depend on the quantity of drugs involved and the role of the offender - for example, social supply as opposed to supply for financial gain. The Sentencing Guidelines for Drug Offences outlines the range of sentences available for supply cases whichIt also has a helpline you can call.
Emr91 14/02/2017 at 5:01 am
My partner has been remanded for intent to supply class a drugs. He is plannig yo ask for a bargin plee of possessiom not intent as was only 7 grams. He has previously been to jail for a class drug charges
I have twins and am pregnant with our first child i am under social services and he is my main support network ineednto nowhat to expect
CourtroomAdvice Editor 07/02/2017 at 12:31 pm
You would have to seek advice from your solicitor regarding this, as we are unable to give direct advice.
Jakey 06/02/2017 at 7:09 pm
Hi im in court on thursday for supplying cannibas for a 3 year period i have no previous convictions and fully admit my guilt i have been told to pack a bag and expect a prison sentence despite my honesty im due to have a presentence report interview before i go into court Like i say i fully admit my guilt and have done alot to change my life since the offense i now have a job and a newborn child aswell as given up selling and smoking cannibas could a presentence report actually help me?
Bennjy 07/01/2017 at 9:10 pm
If someone lies in their interview with a probation officer for their pre sentence probation report for sentencing how can you find out and if they did lie and the lying helps them get off with a lighter sentence can the person prosecuting appeal the case based on the fact the defendant lied in their pre sentence report (based in the U.K.) ps I know the prosecution can see the report so can the judge but it's just words not based on facts but if you know the fact and find out they did lie can you pass the correct information on so they can re prosecute
K 05/01/2017 at 9:32 pm
Will pre sentence reports show any arrests which had no further action?
Kazza 18/11/2016 at 8:58 am
Please make sure if you attend a probation interview for a pre-sentence report you have a witness present. My PSR had a blatant lie in its first paragraph and was intended to up the sentencing. How I wish I had taken one in with me so if you are refused please stick to your gun and refuse to cooperate without one. Contact Sonia Crozier at ministry of Justice if the PO threatens court action. If anyone needs to contact me re advice pls look for Fair Justice with Mental Health. Together we can fight this evil corruption!
anthony 02/11/2016 at 7:46 pm
he i was charged with counts of common assult it was minor but im not in the wrong but the people i supposed to of hit are both witness aswell i have one previous of common assult 2 and a half to 3 years ago if found gulity will i go to jail i only have one other previous on my record for drink driving i also have deppression and anxiety have been suicidle 3 times this year as i have mental helath problems can you help in anyway
Jimmy 24/10/2016 at 10:40 am
I'm at crown court and the judge has order no pre sentance reports dose that mean I'm going to jail
Kirkywirky 18/10/2016 at 8:00 pm
Hello my boyfriend is on a two year licence and has been found guilty in court for a common assault which may I add he never did ! He's back there tomorrow based on a probation report .. Is he going to get jail or will he be given some slack due to him behaving well since coming out of jail working and keeping his head down complying with probation at all times .
Melvin 10/10/2016 at 5:06 pm
My boyfriend is on remand as his ex girlfriend as made accusations against him sayin he's hit her with my car. When he didn't she's obsessed with him there is no evidence just a graze on her leg and one witness witch is a close friend of hers who doesn't like my partner. He's in court for pre sentenceing tomorrow what will happen ?
Pink 09/10/2016 at 6:12 pm
My EX husband is up on a murder charge , he can rot for all i care but my problem here is i have a teenage son with him .. will the press pester me because of this , weve been split up 7 years
jo 05/10/2016 at 7:59 am
hi my partner got charged with assaulting 2 police officers and racism he got 3 weeks in total they took a week off for pleading guilty and the 2 weeks hes done on remand, so he only has to finish his licence off which ends in december magistrates never said nothing about probation, my partner rang me yesterday from prison and said probation pulled him and told him he cant live with me because off domestic violence, there hasnt been any domestic violence or any charges pressed, but if he finishes his licence how can these tell him where to live when he gets out its totally wrong and i am not happy about this 1 bit and neither is he.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 12/09/2016 at 1:41 pm
I'm afraid we cannot predict this, your solicitor or legal representative will be able to give you more information regarding what you can expect.
mackerel 11/09/2016 at 10:38 pm
I've to. Appear at court on. Tuesday to see how. My behaviour has been but last week I got charged with assault and breach of the peace I. Got court bail what will happen on Tuesday
J 26/08/2016 at 7:14 pm
I was charged with assault by beating on my ex fiancé after and argument escalated and neighbors rang the police. I only grabbed her and put my hand over her mouth but she claimed I also put my hands on her throat and tried to gouge her eyes. I have never had any convictions before only a reprimand and warning nearly 8 years ago. I have attended my pre sentence report where I believe they will be recommending a domestic violence course. I'm concerned as to the likelihood of prison as in terms of sentence all options are on the table.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 18/08/2016 at 10:03 am
I'm afraid there is little we can advise on here as the CPS has a duty to both ensure the safety of the victim and children throughout a prosecution case. This means there can be no blurring of the lines, regardless of your partner's opinion.
Jon jon 30/07/2016 at 6:03 pm
I am due to go to magistrates court for sending a noxious item in the post to someone (nothing life threatening) but I also breached data protection law as got there address off of the computer at work, it is my first offence in my whole 45 years and I have been beside myself for the last few months about going, my advocate is going to try to get a probabtion report done on the same day at court so I can get sentenced that day instead of having to go back, what do you think the chances are that it will all get finished on the same day
nat 18/07/2016 at 9:29 pm
I have been convicted of assault on child in new Zealand and its my first ever a offence judge said if i get favourable report its home d how do you know if its a favourable report you get and what is punishment for that
Nan 11/07/2016 at 5:48 pm
I'm waiting for my grandaughter abuser to be sentenced. Why do they keep putting it off . She is 10 and we need a line drawn under this once and for all . Her mum my daughter died when she was a toddler . She lived with her dad from then on . He abused her . When will this end it's been put off twice now . Why
H Howard 09/07/2016 at 5:08 am
It was ordered by crown court that pre sentence reports be done but probation never got in touch with me what will happen when I am up for sentencing
CourtroomAdvice Editor 20/06/2016 at 12:46 pm
I'm afraid only a solicitor or legal representative can do all he/she can in order to try and lessen the sentence, we cannot advise on this.
kt 19/06/2016 at 3:43 pm
my partner was giving 4 months suspended for 2 years but that was a year ago, and he was recently in court for resisting arrest, could he still go to jail as only 1 year of his suspend sentence is done and has another year to go? is there anyway of avoiding a prison sentence as we have 4 children and im due to have my next baby in 3 months and i dont think i can cope on my own if he went to jail, what he did was stupid but he didnt kill anyone or steal of anybody
Dan Editor 12/05/2016 at 1:00 pm
@Joe Leeds - you cannot put up a case for self defence if you plead guilty. Perhaps the court already knows your life story so don't need the report because the judge prefers to judge the sentence by the previous sentencing you have received.
Joe Leeds 11/05/2016 at 8:35 pm
I have pleaded guilty to a gbh section 20 and affray, I have previous for an abh and common assault for violent crimes also being found guilty of 2 burglaries when I was a youth plus more crimes ect... I was last in trouble 5 years ago until recently I have been to crown and have a date for sentencing the judge denied me of having a pre sentence report, what could the reasons be and is it more than likely I will be going to jail again lol? He said that he doesn't want to hear my life story.... And even though I have gone guilty can I my self still put my defence across regarding the matter?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 03/05/2016 at 12:15 pm
It depends on what category you will fall into, please see CPS which
Micky 02/05/2016 at 6:10 pm
I was caught growing 25 cannabis plants i intend to plead guilty what is the sentence its a first offence for cultivation
Spoony 22/04/2016 at 6:57 pm
My boyfriend was in court today to enter his guilty plea of for possession with intent to supply class a drugs. We got given the most horrible judge known in that court and he denied him for a DRR (drugs rehabilitation requirement) and a pre sentence report. I am pregnant and not coping well and neither is he, are we able to appeal these decisions and try again for the DRR when sentencing comes in August?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 18/04/2016 at 12:53 pm
Unfortunately, we cannot comment on this as it is impossible to predict what a court may decide. Your solicitor would be able to tell you what kind of punishment you can be expected to receive.
CarolN 17/04/2016 at 5:10 pm
Hi there
I have committed fraud over a 4/5 year period . It started just little amounts at first lieing about what I needed the money for the real reason was I was addicted to gambling , but I didn't accept that in the beginning .
To cut a long story short .i am in court very soon on fraud act 2006 I am facing a heavy prison sentance .
(I am genuinely sorry ) but the amounts of money are very large from people who trusted in me
The lies were so very wrong from me but at the time I would say anything to get the money
I know niw after going to gamblers help few times that this is part of a gambler lies.

I was raided by the police arrested and admitted everything without a solicitor there
Then I got a solicitor .
But I feel like I was someone else ..weird but I really am disgusted with my acts
I have a probation date .
But since I have had a court date that is just too close to the probation report date
I am facing a few years for my stupid addiction and what happened I can't pay the money back but would if I could .
My question is ? They know the defence all monies were spent on gambling my bank statements say that ..do you think a sentance in prison is enevitable or will they consider it was a gambling addiction and lighten the sentance .
I have not gambled since never would
I am thinking prison is what I face but is there any circumstances which it could be not?
I have a loving family who have no matter what stuck by me they know I am a caring person and the deceit was gambling .
grimbo 24/03/2016 at 10:57 am
I have pleaed guilty to conspiracy to commit arson on Facebook comment what will the judge say I'm in court 4th of april
Dani 18/03/2016 at 5:52 pm
Hi was on court for driving offence and disqualified me for 3 months from driving.

Been stooped by police after 2 days from disqualified and was again on court and judge give me Pre-Sentence report.

Anyone know what can be happen?
Thanks
Anon 14/03/2016 at 4:19 pm
My brother was convicted for a sexual activity with a minor he thought the person was old enough turns out was 14 my brother was 19 at the time.A complaint wasnt made at the time,and two years later he saw the same person (just talked)and that person said they werent 16 at the time.My brother was mortified, he walked into a police station and said he had been with a 14 year old and didnt know at the time.all the family were shocked.Of course he was arrested and court proceedings began.He has been convicted on only his confession,there was no evidence,and witnesses proved the other person had lied about their age.He has had 32 months,had a SOPO order and has been told he will be on the register for life.he has been assesed by psychologists and this wasnt brought up in court,they were positive he had dyspraxia and he was suppose to have a assesment,but was sentenced before he got assesed.This sentence seems harsh,he did not see his pre sentence report till 15mins before going into court,the pre sentence report was all wrong,and my parents have even had a letter from probation admitting this,and there is now questions whether he has been sentenced with what was in the report as he had a different judge on sentencing.
amyw 07/03/2016 at 3:27 pm
I'm in court charged with possession with intent of class A. It was my partners drugs which was in the house. I was with him for 5 yrs and the relationship was very abusive on his part which meant in interview omi was too scared to tell them the truth and that the drugs was his. But I managed to find the guts too get away from him this year and have got my life back on track and decided I now want to fight this in court and say the drugs were his and I was too scared to tell the truth at the arrest. What is the best thing to do? Have a ruined my chances by protecting him in the original interview even though I was the victim of domestic violence? Please help I'm scared and don't know what to.do for the best and for my daughter.
bp2 16/02/2016 at 10:13 pm
My boyfriend is on a serious charge and is being sentence on the 23rd of this month the judge has denied he has a pre sentence report does anyone know if everybody is entitled to one? If we can appeal to get one? Would be thankful for a quick response and how we go.about doing so
casian 08/02/2016 at 10:57 am
does anyone know what questions probation officer asked , just been done for fraud and i have proportion interview this month February,

whic question do they ask?
Spoons 03/02/2016 at 10:46 am
I appeared before a magistrate accused of indecent behaviour. I totally denied this as it seemed to be one word against the other. My downfall seemed to be admitting I was at the same place around the same time as the other person when questioned by police. I didn't get a solicitor as I had nothing to hide. The magistrate has asked for a pre sentence report. I feel I am not getting a fair hearing, and the scenario of being innocent until proven quilty seems to be overlooked. Surely unless there was sound evidence there should be no case, as its one against one. The fact that I was stupid enough to be honest from the start & not feeling the need of a solicitor seems to be the wrong way to handle the law now. If you tell the truth your doomed.
leachy 29/01/2016 at 9:25 pm
18 months ago (fathers day 2014) a man broke into our flats and attacked my partner in our hallway. I heard screaming and rushed to her aid. She was already on floor being beaten and our son was in bed next door. I reacted and defended my family. I was charged with gbh with intent even though no weapon was used. We finally went for trial at the end of 2015 in which I felt I was pushed into a corner to do a plea bargain and plead guilty to section 47 (abh). This was largely due to witnesses seeing me dragging him away from our home. I was told to expect prison but pre sentence reports were asked for. Probation have recommended a suspended sentence and to work with themselves. This due to not being in trouble for 6 years and the incident that occurred that night. My sentencing is next Wednesday at crown court. Is there any chance the judge will listen to them. Many thanks
Mjoc 25/01/2016 at 10:55 pm
Hello my fiance was charged with assualt on myself and bailed before christmas its his first ever dealing with the police and also mine. We have children who were here unfortunately and i believe the police have taken this far too seriously.we have followed the advice of the police and cpa and hr has pleaded guilty etc but we are still a family and are in no way frightened of him or have ever been. We just want this all over and him home. Im terrified hes being made out to be a monster when he isnt. Will the court take into consideration his mental state the fact we are doing courses, awaiting family councilling, we are both on medication, we have never been in trouble before, im not an abused wife and i love him dearly. This whole debacle is causing more stress and upset for the whole family instead. Of helping.
f14t 20/01/2016 at 11:46 pm
My brother was wrongly accused of committing affray with an offensive weapon. The prosecution also alleged he approached the witnesses and offered to bribe them. The witnesses have fabricated the charges and there is no proof of anyone using an offensive weapon. My brother was coerced by his barrister in thinking that he may face real jail time if he did not plead guilty. My brother is now having to spend the next 4 weeks in remand until sentencing and drop out of his LPC and his job at the bank. His barrister did not put up a fight for him and plead his innocence. He actually incriminated him and referred to him as.'stupid' in front of the judge! What can I do to help him???
vikkiekylan22 12/01/2016 at 4:39 pm
Hi my partner is currently on remand for common assault and breach of bail conditions and is due for sentencing as he pleaded fuilty. There has further been a letter off the cps saying they are not going to be charging him with common assault as they do not feel there is sufficent evidence i am just wounfering as he has already pleaded guilty now will he still be charged for this? Or will he just be dealt with for the breach can someone help me, or would he have to change his plea?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 04/01/2016 at 2:16 pm
You would have to check whether your father can appeal.
Rana 04/01/2016 at 10:28 am
My father has just recieved a 3.5 year sentence for taking his child out of the country with out parental consent.
I feel the probation report was influenced by the police officer involved and did not reflect the interview that took places. The probation officer said that he would recommend a fine to dad and a suspended sentence. The report was damming and took little or nothing from the interview.
Can we request a investigation or copy of interview. There was an interpreter present. What can be done.
mcsqu81 22/12/2015 at 7:18 pm
I'm waiting to hear from the probation for a presentence report. I'm getting worried because the sentencing date isn't far away. Can the judge sentence me if the probation service doesn't get back to be in time?
daisy47 19/12/2015 at 4:21 pm
My partner was found guilty of a sexual crime. He totally denies this and remain his innocence His pre-sentence report was completed by video link, can he ask for the report to be done again or make any appeal against some of its contents, As the probation person saw a person that does not exist, The report was only her opinion and oasys. He is not the person she descrbed and he was sentence accordingly on that report, can he appeal on it somehow
Worried 27/11/2015 at 8:37 am
My son went to court pleaded guilty to sending his ex a text message that upset her he was given unconditional discharged 100 fine and had to behave fir 12 months that was last July ,now got an appointment to see probation officer next week? Why?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 17/11/2015 at 12:59 pm
While the courts will take sentencing recommendations, there is no guarantee that the judge will act upon this and it is impossible to predict what the court may decide.
Ibbzy 16/11/2015 at 9:55 pm
I've had a family member wrongly convicted by jury of a crime regarding immigration. As said family member was in a position of trust the judge also being prosecutor minded the trial went ahead even though the said offender has very complicated health issues as well as a child that has health issues, along with being a only parent. What are the chances the family member will receive a suspended sentence? The probation officer has said they will heavily recommend a suspended sentence, due to the the fact that the offender is of no harm to the public and due to her very complicated health and being a only parents. What are the chances the judge will listen to it?
Maryoma 14/11/2015 at 12:04 am
My friend pleaded guilty to a sec 66 soa(2003) he didn't do what he's accused of , the only evidence is a 3 minute cctv footage. He had a previous conviction in 2002. And the mag court talked about it in the 1st hearing 4 th November 15. The district judge ordered pre sentence report. I believe probation ddnt even visit my friend they conversed via video link . How will my friend be able to view the report. Wat kind of sentence is he looking to get , he's in court on 19 th November 15. And his solicitor ( paid ) hasn't even been to see him yet , he's due to see him this Monday 16th .
Colin 13/11/2015 at 2:11 pm
I have been charged with criminal damage,The charge states that the damage amounts to 800 pounds.However there is no way it could be this much as it was a motorcycle indicator and mirror that were damaged when I removed the motorbike from a parking bay and put it down on the ground on its side.(it was actually rammed in to a space between mine and one other bike bike causing my own bike to be damaged,however I acted hastily and have no evidence of that).The police documented this in their reports.As I have admitted to the police that i did indeed move the bike and put it on the ground,this is the basis on which I have been charged.There were no witnesses to me moving the bike.I intend to represent myself and plead guilty to the moving of the bike but am not willing to admit to the extent of the damage.I do not wish to use a solicitor as the costs will be extreme if I was to go to trial and the costs would appear to cancel each other out as lawyers fees are extremely expensive.I cannot get legal aid due to income.I want to cut my losses and admit to the fact but also negotiate on the damage cost factor.Is this possible to do this and what do you think a likely outcome would be with regards to sentencing or a fine?Its a magistrates court.Thanks
CourtroomAdvice Editor 06/11/2015 at 2:07 pm
I am sorry to hear this. Although, I'm afraid we cannot predict what sentence a judge may award. Your solicitor would have a better indication of this.
Sylv 05/11/2015 at 8:19 pm
I am a 56 year old woman and was attacked AND BEATEN by Youths age 23. They have been charged with ABH, its all caught on cctv footage, they are due to appear in Crown shortly and are pleading guilty after watching cctv footage. What sentencing are they likely to get
kk 24/10/2015 at 10:42 pm
Hi my son is due in crown court for sexual assault that happened 3 years ago he was under 16. There are 4 counts on him 2 wen he was 17. He 19 now he pledged guilty and is absolutely terrified that he is going to prison. He has never been arrested before this was his 1st time. He spoke to probation and told them how sorry he was in fact he broke down in there. He has also written an apology letter to the judge. I have also written a letter about my son and how he had a bad family background. I has sick wen he was younger with depression . I was wondering if you could tell me do they take his age he was at the time it happened into consideration and the fact that he has never been in trouble before and could he get a suspended sentance. I don't think he would cope in prison
Rach91 19/10/2015 at 10:19 am
I was found guilty 3 weeks ago and I was told I would receive a letter with date and time to have a meeting with my probation officer. So I took it upon myself to contact the probation office after being put through to numerous different people and finally spoke to someone. They have said that they cannot do a report in two days and that I need to attend court and that it will get adjured. I said to them this is making me ill I can't afford counciling because I have lost two good jobs from this as I don't know what sentencing I will get. Also I cannot commit to applying for other jobs as the same reason and haven't got an income so how am I possibly meant to live another month?! I told her I was waiting for a letter like I was told I would receive with date on it to attend and that my solicitor has also been trying to contact them the past week and still I haven't heard anything back and it's now two days away. I have 3 character references that I have got of different people.im worried that I will go to court without a report which isn't my fault! I would drive miles right now to meet the probation officer. Then if I go to court they won't get a true idea of how this has affected my life. I just want to put it all behind me and commit to a decent job.
Kb 16/10/2015 at 8:55 pm
My partner has been remanded for almost 5 mths for possession of a bladed article in public place and common assault he has only been charged with a drunk and disorderly prior to this . The judge ordered a pre sentence report which was completed yesterday and the probation worker said he would recommend everythin but a custodial sentence will the judge take notice of this ? also he said the judge had said he wanted back to court no later than next Friday . Will that be the case ? It has been a very long few months we have 4 older children and a baby whom my partner missed the birth .since this offence the social services have been involved awaiting out come of the case because they say they need to do a risk assessment on my partner to decide whether he is allowed home but everybody we've asked can't see why there involved as the offence is nothing to do with me and the children and there is no ther problem she said she waiting to see what happens and if my partner gets a custodial sentence then she will close the case because she's just wasting my time coming out once a month or she has to close the case .
A 05/10/2015 at 9:59 pm
Hi I pleaded guilty to affray and carrying a knife I've been court many times always was left on bail but i decided to plead guilty the judge orderd a report it went well with the probation officer I've never been in trouble before good guy working family man with two small kids what will the out come be anyone had something like this before the other Person was a ticket man I didn't hit or atack him just threatend him ik
Hoping it's not prison
Marie Editor 24/09/2015 at 1:49 pm
@lynnhitch - while there is a conflict of interests - did the legal firm not know this first hand? I'd certainly make a complaint if they were aware of this, or even not aware of it. They should have checked! I'd write to the courts too.
lynnhitch 23/09/2015 at 5:37 pm
If the the defendant and co defendant was represented by two different lawyer in the same law firm and the co defendant plea not guilty and went to trial and found not guilty cause was blame on me.and then all of sudden my lawyer dtops me cause he said they said two lawyers from the same law firm couldn't represent a defendant and codefendant.now that means I didnt have a fair trial.and my rights was vilated to me .am I right?
Jase Editor 04/09/2015 at 2:48 pm
@Jade loves - if they request it from the prison services, yes.
Jade loves 03/09/2015 at 8:50 pm
Can probation have a record of who is visiting you when your in prison ?
Kelbellz 29/07/2015 at 2:54 pm
Hi jst wondering is it possible to write to the judge, wen a case is continued for reports, on behave of the person that's bn found guilty if ure involved in the case.
Concerned 21/07/2015 at 1:42 am
Hi there, can other people contribute to a pre sentence report to give an insight into someone's history? If so how do you go about giving that information?
Kezzzzzzzxx 17/07/2015 at 4:45 pm
Hi what does it mean if the police and defence have asked for a sentancing to come out till a later date? I'm realy confused
Jem Editor 09/07/2015 at 12:05 pm
@moxey - while he may be pleading guilty, a solicitor may be able to convince the court to give a lower sentence by pleading mitigating circumstances.
moxey 06/07/2015 at 4:25 pm
Hi my son is going to crown court for dealing drugs, weed a total of 2oz he has pled quilty and has co operated through out, we were having a court appointed lawyer but due to the strike we no longer have one. My question is as he has already pled quilty do we need a lawyer or can he or someone else speak on his behalf
Many thanks
pip 01/07/2015 at 4:31 pm
Can you take someone with you to the interview for support if you have special needs?
lmc 25/06/2015 at 6:51 pm
Do the crown court judges pay any attention at all to a pre sentence report
CourtroomAdvice Editor 18/06/2015 at 12:45 pm
@Curt - I'm afraid we can't possibly predict the result of a court case, as it is up to the courts to decide based upon the evidence given.
Curt 16/06/2015 at 11:30 am
Hi my partner has been on remand since may he was charged with theft,escaping police custody and criminal damage to a he pleaded guilty from the start and was at crown court last week where the judge requested a probation report and he will be sentenced in July which will have been 2 months what sort of outcome could it possible be?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 08/06/2015 at 10:51 am
@Lee - I'm afraid we can't advise on this as this will be down to the courts to decide.
Lee 05/06/2015 at 2:41 pm
I have been charged under section 24 a 1 of immigrant act 1971. They are telling me that I have knowing that I know bringing my wife by Ireland visas is not right visa and I did , but I have asked all travel agencies and I have checked and they told me there is no problem at all , even I had. My return ticket with me but they still didn't believe me I went to magistrate court and passed me to crown court but I really don't know what will happen there.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 02/06/2015 at 11:21 am
@penryn - I'm afraid we don't have historic knowledge of pre-sentencing reports, you might have to try the library for this information.
penryn 29/05/2015 at 1:43 pm
Question. I am researching for fiction. Would a pre-sentence report requirement have been in existance in 1960? Would it have been appropraite in a GBH case? Who would have carried out the report?
If in 1960 there were no such reports, how would a judge have made an assement of the background circumstances, for example: possible sparodic mental illness?
Thank you for your time.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 28/05/2015 at 12:17 pm
@cheffy - I am afraid we couldn't attempt to anticipate what the court may decide.
cheffy 25/05/2015 at 10:30 pm
My brother is in court tommorow for sentencing for pleading guilty to using a air rifle during self defence in saving myself from me brutally assaulted....this happened when my brother was 16 he is now turning 18 in july,he not been in trouble during the time waiting to go to court. The judge requested a pre sentence report to be done asap but not one has been done could this affect him in anyway tommorow? Also is he looking to be sentence to prison? Please could you help thank you
capelass 22/05/2015 at 1:00 pm
My son was sentenced in Preston crown court to 6 months. It related to a fight between him and three others. He was fending them off with a 2 foot plunger stick. The pre-sentence hearing suggested a suspended sentence. I would like to know why he was sentenced with no appeal? Surely it should be a basic right to be able to appeal?
CourtroomAdvice Editor 14/05/2015 at 11:02 am
@Rachrich13 - We have only just come to your comment today, and I suspect the trial of your partner will have been conducted by now. Therefore, any advice, I assume is no longer of use.
Rachrich13 12/05/2015 at 9:59 am
My partner is due in court tomorrow for sentencing. He has pleaded guilty to ABH and theft. He has been held on remand since the incident on the 2nd April. The assault and theft was against me after my partner went crazy whilst under the influence. He's vattled depression after losing his job 2 yrs ago and became a drink and drug addict to try and get through each day. He's accepted responsibility for his actions for the first time ever and has vowed to get clean. Is it possible for me to attend crown court tomorrow for his sentencing as I am the victim in the case? We have spoken regularly and I have visited him in prison and have said I will stand by him providing he sorts his addiction out once and for all.
Lawisanass Editor 09/05/2015 at 10:14 pm
@courtroomadvice Is it not also the case that the Crown Court actually say what to put in the pre sentence report? Not all of it, but some of it. Which begs the question why does there need to be one? Ridiculous.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 06/05/2015 at 2:33 pm
@noddy - as specified in the article, it is important to note that the court does not have to go along with the recommendation in the report, and the probation officer’s opinion is not binding on the type of sentence you get. This means, for example, that if you have committed a serious offence and the report recommends a lot of community punishment, you could still be sent to prison. In practice, however, if you are sentenced in the magistrates’ court the bench will nearly always go along with the recommendation in the report. It is quite common, though, for judges in the crown court to take absolutely no notice of the pre-sentence report and to pass a completely different sentence instead. In some cases, this may be a totally different type of sentence. For example, a pre-sentence report that recommends a Community Punishment Order of 240 hours may be ignored by a judge who imposes a six month period of imprisonment suspended for two years. I hope this helps.
noddy 05/05/2015 at 1:52 pm
My barrister made a deal awaiting six months sentencing but have been send for a pre sentencing report if the probation office gaves a good report and recommending no jail can the sentencing be dealt to something different
None 01/05/2015 at 9:19 pm
My husband forgot the date of his pre assement interview with prohbation. They now can not get him in before his sentencing date. He is charged with common assault no previous arrests or convictions. What is likely to happen now he has missed this meeting?
Weeman 30/04/2015 at 11:17 am
If you have been tried and there was a hung jury and a retrial is ordered. If you plead guilty before the retrial. Will this work in the same manner as pleading guilty before the first trail. Can your lawyer ask for pre-sentencing report or can you be placed in custody as soon as your plea is accepted. Also if you commit an indititable when you are 17 and you're tried and convicted when you're 18. Will the sentence be for a juvinile or adult?
Loadsavdoka Editor 09/04/2015 at 6:33 pm
@Courtroomadvice Thanks for the link, I have already looked at this site for advice. I just cannot find anywhere someone that says either yes or no to the sentencing date. Appeal papers are being prepared as we speak and a sentencing date has been placed. Will the date still apply?! Please help!
CourtroomAdvice Editor 09/04/2015 at 2:22 pm
@Loadsavodka - you should be able to find the informatin you need via whichI hope this helps.
Loadsavodka Editor 07/04/2015 at 5:56 pm
@Ed My understanding is there are 2 types of appeals, one against conviction (which is what I was asking about) and one against sentencing once this has happened. You can of course appeal against both. I am wanting to know if an appeal against conviction is made within the given 28 day time frame then this stops the sentencing court date from happening.
Ed Editor 07/04/2015 at 10:48 am
@Loadsavodka - no a person would appeal against the sentence given. For example if that person was sentenced to a prison sentence, then they would set up the appeal process from prison.
Loadsavodka 03/04/2015 at 9:26 am
If a sentencing date has been set for someone found guilty in court and they want to appeal it, does this stop the sentencing date happening?
wanderer 15/03/2015 at 5:21 pm
I can confirm that you are able to instruct your solicitor to tell the court that you are appaling against conviction. A date will then be set to hear this appeal in court. I write reports for the coutrt so can verift that this information is correct. hope this helps. You are also able to appeal against sentence if you feel the sentence is too harsh, but be aware if you appeal the sentence can also be considered if it should increase. Also if you lose, you are liable for the costs.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 09/03/2015 at 2:46 pm
@Ncanana - you would have to discuss this with your solicitor I'm afraid, as we can't advise on this.
Ncanana 07/03/2015 at 5:57 am
Sir/Madam
I have been found guilty,I am going for pre-sentencing on 10/April/2015, during the time when the magistrate was imposing the verdict,she did not quote the relevant informatlon the defence was saying before court.Instead he was in the state witnesses side
Is it possible for the defence to rectify the unfairness of the court, before pre sentencing is taken place. The magistrate version was an embarrassment, if there is such, what act that allow me to complain for the version, before the pre-sentence can take place
Thanking you.
CourtroomAdvice Editor 29/01/2015 at 10:38 am
@Wronged - the problem you have here is that the media are only reporting on things said by your daughter and presumably in court, which is legal. I'm afraid the defamation of character has come via your daughter. Defamation is a wrongful act where someone makes a false statement that injures the reputation of another. In deciding such cases, courts typically balance the competing interests of the right to free speech of the defamer with the reputation interest of the person being defamed. I'm afraid it is your daughter who you would have to counter-sue for defamation of character, not the media. I hope this helps.
Wronged 27/01/2015 at 4:03 pm
I have been accused by my adult daughter of mental and physical cruelty to her in her childhood when she had to provide info for a presentence report following an eventual guilty plea by her for very serious benefit fraud. The media have referred to these false allegations against me in their reports in the crown court hearing and yet.no probation or indeed any relevant person has checked with myself the verification of her accusations against me.before the were made public in the court. I have consequently been publicly defamed and thus my good character has been put in question. What if anything can be done and shouldn't the content of presentence reports be checked for the truth before being submitted to courts?
bkl1940 28/06/2014 at 4:22 pm
How can these reports be trusted. I have been told they are 'independent', but I equate Probation workers with Social workers and to date our contact with social workers has been disastrous, both probation officers and social workers I also come into contact with in in my professional work. the probation officers I have spoon to have been unhelpful.
An innocent man being found guilty by a spiteful jury simply because the case was about a child. his partner found guilty almost immediately yet it took a few days longer for them to come back after a reduced number of guilty votes. A man who told the truth in court, yet if he continues to tell the truth about what happened how can he get a good report. he will be accused of being in denial. The charge carries a 10 year maximum tarrif. The fiasco of the court proceeding is tearing our family apart. to have him in jail because he gets a vindictive pre sentence report is terrifying
tony 15/01/2013 at 10:47 am
Hi, I would like a copy of my pre-sentence report. Who do I contact if this is possible.
Jedeye47 30/12/2012 at 6:10 pm
Hi What if you have never had a pre-sentence report but the probation service have written that you have ?

Ask Courtroom Advice a question

Ask our editorial team a question and we will reply with our advice. Tell us as much about your situation as you can: the more detail you give, the more useful our answer can be.

You do not need to use your real name. Please do not include your full address, phone number, email address, or the names of other people. We may edit or remove identifying details for privacy and legal reasons.

Comments are moderated before publication.

Related
Sentence Guide Sentence Guide Tool Court Preparation Checklist Court Preparation Checklist Tool Pleading Guilty and the Courts Pleading Guilty and the Courts Police and Court Bail Police and Court Bail Pre-Court Penalties Pre-Court Penalties Getting an Anti Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) Getting an Anti Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) Drugs and the Criminal Law Drugs and the Criminal Law Caught Drink Driving Caught Drink Driving
Most Popular
1 Failure to Attend Jury Service: What Happens if You Miss It 2 Pre-Sentence Reports: What They Are and What Happens Next 3 Attending Jury Service 4 What Happens if You Breach a Community Order or Probation 5 Rules of Jury Service 6 Can I Have a Case Transferred to Another Location?
Try our free Sentence Guide See Sentencing Guide