Sentencing

15 important questions on Sentencing

What are the factors in sentencing?

Factors in sentencing include:
  • The offence
  • Sentencing guidelines
  • The offender's background

What is the power of the Crown Court in terms of fines?

The Crown Court has unlimited power when it comes to fines. Magistrates' courts have a limit on fines for summary offences. The Crown Court can impose fines without such a limit.

What are the aggravating factors in sentencing according to the Criminal Justice Act 2003?

Aggravating factors include:
  • S143(1) Criminal Justice Act 2003
  • Defendant on bail when offence committed
  • Racial or religious hostility
  • Hostility to disability or sexual orientation
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What are the aims of sentencing according to the notes?

  • Judges consider sentencing options and what they aim to achieve.
  • Criminal Justice Act 2003.
  • Protection of the public.
  • Retribution/Punishment.
  • Deterrence.
  • Reform/Rehabilitation.

What are the types of custodial sentences mentioned?

Types of custodial sentences include:
  • Mandatory & discretionary
  • Life sentences
  • Fixed-term sentences
  • Suspended sentences

What are the types of discharge in sentencing?

Types of discharge:
  • Conditional: Court allows offender to not commit any offence during a set period of 3 years.
  • Absolute: No penalty imposed.

What is reparation in the context of sentencing?

  • Offender compensates the victim or society.
  • Ordered to pay a sum of money to the victim for restitution.
  • Reduction of crime and justice of the victim.

What are the mitigating factors in sentencing?

Mitigating factors allow a lighter sentence:
  • Co-operating with police
  • Mental illness
  • Physical illness

What is a mandatory life sentence and when can it be set?

A mandatory life sentence can be set in legislations for murder. It is a required sentence for certain serious offenses, ensuring the offender serves a life term.

How is denunciation described in the notes?

  • Society expressing disapproval of criminal activity.
  • Reflects blameworthiness of the offence.

Describe a community order and its purpose.

A community order is when a judge says offenders need to give back to the community, allowing them to fit the restrictions/rehabilitation of the offender's needs. It includes unpaid work.

How does a guilty plea affect sentencing?

A guilty plea reduction depends on how early the defendant takes the plea:
  • First reasonable opportunity: 1/3
  • After trial set: 1/4
  • Door of court or after trial begins: up to 1/10

What is the purpose of long-term imprisonment according to the notes?

  • Given to people who need to be put away to protect the general public.
  • Linked to rehabilitation.
  • Alter offender behavior to conform to community norms.

How does the concept of deterrence function in sentencing?

  • Giving punishment to put the defendant off.
  • Prevents them from offending due to fear of punishment.
  • Prevents other crimes.

What is a discretionary life sentence and for which offense is it applicable?

A discretionary life sentence applies to certain offenses, e.g., Section 18 of the Offence Against the Person Act (1861). It allows courts to impose life terms based on the offense's severity.

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