51AVictim impact statements—adjournment of proceeding to

51A Victim impact statements—adjournment of proceeding to allow preparation (1) If the prosecution in a sentencing proceeding for a serious offence requests an adjournment for the preparation of a victim impact statement, the court must grant the adjournment for a reasonable period to allow the statement’s preparation.

(2) However, the court must not adjourn the proceeding if satisfied that special circumstances justify refusing the adjournment. serious offence means an offence punishable by imprisonment for longer than 5 years.