How Do Judges Determine Sentencing?
In determining a sentence, the judge needs to consider the factors listed in Idaho Code § 19-2601 in Idaho State Courts and 18 U.S.C. §3553 in Federal Court. The judge is charged with imposing sentencing that is sufficient, but not greater than necessary to promote respect for the law, provide a just punishment, deter further criminal conduct, protect the public, and reflect the seriousness of the offense and rehabilitation of the person that committed the crime. A judge will usually take into consideration whether the defendant has a prior criminal history, whether the crime has a victim, and the defendant’s current life. This can include whether you, the defendant, simply made a one-time mistake when they normally lead a law-abiding life. The prosecutor and the defendant’s attorney may make recommendations to the judge.
Criminal defense attorney John Cutler and the Cutler Law Office, P.A. take the sentencing hearing seriously and will spend time with you to find out the good qualities you have and the good things you have done. It is our goal to present our clients to the judge in a way that the judge see them differently than a person that committed a crime. We want the Judge to understand who you are and the circumstances surrounding the crime that mitigate against a harsh sentence.
Cutler Law Office, P.A. is Here to Defend Your Reputation
If you are facing criminal charges in the Idaho Falls or the a neighboring county, contact experienced criminal defense attorney John Cutler today.
