Pre-sentence report (PSR)

A report written by the Probation Service, or a youth justice worker, to help the court decide the right sentence.

A pre-sentence report (PSR) is a report prepared to help the court decide on a sentence, usually by the Probation Service for adults or the youth offending team for under-18s. The report writer interviews the defendant and looks at the offence, their background and circumstances, their attitude, the risk of reoffending and the risk of harm to others. It then suggests suitable options, such as a community order and which requirements would fit. Under section 30 of the Sentencing Act 2020, a court must normally obtain one before deciding that a custodial or community sentence is justified, unless it considers a report unnecessary. It may be prepared on the day, sometimes given orally, or the case may be adjourned for a fuller written report. Adjourning for a report does not mean the court has decided on any sentence, and the court does not have to follow its proposal.

Checked as at 25 September 2026. General information only, not legal advice.