Do legislative changes to sentencing, such as to minimum or maximum sentences,
have a deterrent effect on crime?

Background

The objective for MoJ is to develop a sustainable and effective prison and probation service that protects the public, delivers interventions that break the cycle of reoffending and rebuilds confidence in the criminal justice system. We want to divert adults, children and young people away from crime. Our evidence interests span a range of areas through all stages of the justice system, with a particular focus on improving holistic systems-wide understanding of what works to improve outcomes.

Next steps

Get in touch with [email protected]

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Similar ARIs from other organisations

Whole Justice System Analysis - Justice as a System How effective are different sentence types at improving community safety, reducing reoffending, promoting rehabilitation, and limiting the churn of people through the prison system? Scottish Government Justice Analytical Services, 2025
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