The Scottish Sentencing Council (SSC) is seeking public input on sentencing guidelines for rape offences to ensure they are both appropriate and effective.

 A public consultation will open this week and continue until mid-October, inviting feedback from individuals of all backgrounds over a 12-week period.

 Chairwoman of the council, Lord Justice Clerk Lady Dorrian, emphasized the gravity of rape as one of the most serious offences, highlighting its prominence in the High Court of Justiciary and the significant public concern it raises. This initiative follows the SSC’s recent previous guidelines on death by driving.

 Lady Dorrian stated, “All our guidelines are evidence-based and informed by research and consultation. We have engaged with a wide range of organisations and individuals, including the judiciary, the legal profession, and interest groups. Now, we are entering a crucial phase with our public consultation. We want our guidelines to be useful to the courts, court users, and the public in general.”

 The SSC noted that sexual offences are a growing concern and represent an increasing number of sentences in Scottish courts. The guidelines aim to assist judges in making difficult sentencing decisions and help the public understand these decisions better.

 Sandy Brindley, chief executive of Rape Crisis Scotland, remarked, “These will be the first-ever sentencing guidelines on rape in Scotland. It is vital that sentencing in these cases feels fair and transparent. We welcome this consultation and encourage people to review the draft guidelines and share their views.”

 The guidelines outline factors that influence sentencing, such as the offender’s culpability and the harm caused to the victim. They stress that offences involving violence or threats, abuse of trust, premeditation, or severe harm should be treated more seriously and more weight given to them when imposing sentences. The guidelines also include sentencing ranges and discussions on protecting the public in the future.

 Stuart Munro, convener of the Law Society of Scotland Criminal Law Committee, called the consultation a significant opportunity for both legal professionals and the public to contribute to the development of the guidelines. He encouraged everyone with an interest in the justice system to participate.

 The consultation will remain open until October 18.