Key Developments
On 5 May 2026, the HM Government announced reforms to the Armed Forces justice system to enhance protection and support for victims of serious and sexual crimes. The government said measures would include new protective orders, expanded powers for service police, and clearer guidance to help victims understand their legal options.
Key Statistics
- 51% conviction rate at Court Martial, compared with 36% at Crown Court (comparative outcome data)
- 24% victim withdrawal rate in Service Justice, compared with 59% in the civilian system (comparative attrition)
- 148 days average service investigation time, compared with 338 days in the civilian system (comparative timeliness)
Main Body
On 5 May 2026, the HM Government set out reforms to the Service Justice System intended to strengthen protections for victims of serious and sexual offences. The government said the package aimed to improve support across reporting, investigation, and prosecution, and to make decision making clearer for those navigating military and civilian legal pathways.
A government statement outlined new protective orders, increased powers for service police, and improved guidance so victims can make informed choices about pursuing cases in service or civilian courts. The announcement also cited comparative performance data, noting a 51 percent conviction rate at Court Martial versus 36 percent at the Crown Court, a 24 percent victim withdrawal rate in the service system versus 59 percent in the civilian system, and average investigation durations of 148 days in service cases versus 338 days in civilian cases.
According to the HM Government, these measures formed part of a wider commitment to address violence against women and girls and to embed a more victim-centered approach in military justice. The reforms were presented as a continuation of efforts to align processes, improve outcomes, and clarify routes to justice for serving personnel and their families.
The government said the changes were intended to bolster confidence in the Service Justice System, reduce case attrition, and accelerate case handling, which are central to fair treatment and discipline in the Armed Forces. Clearer procedures and enhanced policing powers, the HM Government indicated, were expected to support more consistent decisions on jurisdiction, better victim support, and stronger accountability across defence.
