National to Scrap Good Character Assessments for Sex Offenders at Sentencing

The New Zealand National Party has proposed a legislative change that would prohibit judges from using an offender’s “good character” as a mitigating factor during the sentencing of sexual offenders.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith announced the proposal, stating that the current legal framework frequently prioritizes the reputation of the perpetrator over the experiences of the victim. Under the existing system, judges are required to consider testimony from various individuals—including employers, family members, and coaches—who may testify that the offending behavior is an exception to the individual’s established character.

Goldsmith argued that these character assessments can provide an advantage to “well-connected” offenders. He noted that while an offender’s public reputation might be used to argue for leniency, the impact and consequences for the victim remain unchanged regardless of the perpetrator’s social or professional standing.

The proposed reform is intended to strengthen the consequences for sexual violence by removing the requirement for judges to weigh an offender’s public reputation when determining penalties. The measure is aimed at ensuring tougher sentences and creating more consistent outcomes for sexual crimes.

This announcement follows several other legislative efforts by the National Party to reform law, and order. Previous measures include limiting sentencing discounts to a maximum of 40%, making stalking a jailable offense, and granting victims the power to determine whether perpetrators receive permanent name suppression.