Factors in Sentencing: Reduction in Sentence For a Guilty Plea

Question 1

What happens to a defendant’s sentence when they plead guilty?

Answer 1

There will be a reduction in their sentence.

Question 2

What are the Sentencing Council’s guidelines?

Answer 2

• There will be a reduction of up to a third if the plea is made at the first reasonable opportunity.
• There will be a reduction of up to a quarter if the plea is made after the trial has been set.
• There will be a reduction of a tenth if the plea is made after the trial has started.

Question 3

What is the exception to the defendant receiving a reduction in their sentence if they plead guilty?

Answer 3

If the defendant’s guilt is clear.

Question 4

What happens in the circumstance when the defendant’s guilt is clear?

Answer 4

The judge only needs to give a 20 per cent discount for the plea of guilty.