Criminology Term: Sentencing
The act of sentencing denotes the judicial process of imposing a penalty or punishment on an individual who has been found guilty of a criminal offense. The sentence can take the form of a monetary fine, community service, probation, or confinement in jail or prison.
The sentencing phase typically follows a trial or a plea agreement where the defendant has been convicted of a crime.
During the sentencing hearing, the judge considers numerous factors such as the heinousness of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating factors.
Witnesses, including the victim and defendant, as well as arguments from the prosecutor and defense counsel, may also influence the judge's decision.
The extent of the judge's discretion varies from case to case, depending on whether mandatory minimum sentencing laws or sentencing guidelines apply. The sentencing objectives include holding the offender accountable, protecting society, and rehabilitating the defendant.
Nevertheless, there is often intense controversy and debate over the appropriateness of the sentence based on the severity of the crime and the specific circumstances of the case.
