Review the law on unfit to plead & reform it to protect victims & public safety

Open for signatures 8,342 signatures

What the petition asks

Government to review and reform the law on unfitness to plead, including the judicial powers following a "trial of facts" with the aim to ensuring that victims' rights and public protection are central to outcomes. This review should consider mandatory public safety measures (such as driving bans).

In our view, current laws on defendants "unfit to plead" are outdated and fail to protect the public or deliver justice. Even when a jury finds someone caused serious harm or death, courts have limited powers and may impose no meaningful sanction. We believe that this legal gap denies justice to victims, restricts judges, and risks public safety. Reform is urgently needed.

Timeline

8 May 2026

Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 8,342

Status Open for signatures

Department Ministry of Justice

Opened 8 May 2026

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