5. Sentencing Principles Flashcards

1
Q

What are three aggravating factors which must be taken into account on sentencing?

A
  1. Previous convictions, having regard to their nature and time passed
  2. Offence committed on bail
  3. Motivated by protected characteristic of victim
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2
Q

What are nine aggravating factors which may be taken into account on sentencing?

A
  1. Premeditation
  2. Committed in a group
  3. Vulnerable victim
  4. Drunk or on drugs
  5. Abuse of position of trust
  6. Weapon
  7. Gratuitous violence
  8. Victim providing public service
  9. High value or sentimental nature of property
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3
Q

What are seven mitigating factors which may be taken into account on sentencing?

A
  1. Impulse
  2. Provocation
  3. Disability/mental illness
  4. Very young/old
  5. Minor role played
  6. Motivated by fear
  7. Reparation to victim
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4
Q

What is the totality principle the court will consider when sentencing?

A

Overall sentence must be not be disproportionate to the overall seriousness of the offence

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5
Q

When will sentences for multiple offences generally be served concurrently?

A

Offences are connected and arise out of the same matter, and the defendant is found guilty of more than one

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6
Q

When will sentences for multiple offences generally be served consecutively?

A

Offences did not arise out of the same matter

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7
Q

What reduction in sentence will the defendant receive if they plead guilty at the first available opportunity?

A

One third off

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8
Q

What does the custody threshold test provide, which must be passed before a custodial sentence can be imposed?

A

No offender should be sentenced to a custodial sentence unless the offence (or series of offences) is so serious that neither a fine nor a community order will suffice

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9
Q

What sentences can the (1) Magistrates Court and (2) Crown Court suspend, and how can can they be suspended for?

A

Magistrates Court can suspend a six month sentence and Crown Court can suspend a two year sentence, both for a maximum of two years

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10
Q

When is a Newton Hearing held?

A

When a defendant wants to plead guilty on a specified basis because they accept their culpability but do not agree with the full facts set out by the prosecution, a Newton hearing will be held if the prosecution disputes the defendant’s account

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11
Q

What happens if a Newton hearing is settled in (1) the prosecution’s favour and (2) the defendant’s favour?

A

Prosecution’s favour: Defendant loses 1/3 credit for pleading guilty
Defence’s favour: Defendant retains 1/3 credit

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