Criminal Sentencing Lawyers
Verified NZ firms for sentencing. Answer a few questions to find a Criminal lawyer in minutes.
Understanding Sentencing and when to get legal help
The criminal practice area in New Zealand focuses on laws that deal with crimes and how offenders are punished. One important part of this area is sentencing, which is about deciding what punishment someone should receive after being found guilty of a crime.
What is Sentencing?
Sentencing is the process where a judge decides the appropriate penalty for a person who has committed a crime. This can include various types of punishments, such as:
- Prison time: The offender may be sent to prison for a certain number of years.
- Community service: The offender may be required to do unpaid work in the community.
- Fines: The offender may have to pay money as a penalty.
- Rehabilitation programmes: The offender may be ordered to attend programmes to help them change their behaviour.
How is Sentencing Decided?
In New Zealand, judges consider several factors when deciding on a sentence. These include:
- The seriousness of the crime: More serious crimes usually lead to harsher sentences. For example, a violent crime may result in a longer prison term than a minor theft.
- The offender's background: Judges look at the offender's personal history, including any previous convictions and their circumstances.
- Impact on victims: The judge considers how the crime affected the victim and their family.
- Public interest: The sentence should also reflect what is fair for society and help deter others from committing similar crimes.
Examples of Sentencing
Here are a couple of examples to illustrate how sentencing works:
- If someone is convicted of shoplifting, they might receive a fine and be ordered to do community service.
- If a person is found guilty of assault, they could face a prison sentence, especially if the attack caused serious injury.
Sentencing is a crucial part of the criminal justice system in New Zealand. It aims to ensure that justice is served while also considering the needs of the community and the offender. Understanding how sentencing works helps everyone appreciate the balance between punishment and rehabilitation in our legal system.
How to choose the right Sentencing lawyer
- Look for a lawyer with experience in criminal law and sentencing.
- Check their track record with similar cases.
- Consider their communication style and availability.
- Read client reviews and testimonials.
Verified Criminal Law firms
These law firms are experienced in helping Kiwis navigate Sentencing in Criminal matters.
Common questions about Sentencing:
What is sentencing in criminal law?
Sentencing is the legal process where a judge determines the punishment for a person convicted of a crime.
When should I hire a lawyer for sentencing?
You should hire a lawyer if you are facing charges, have been convicted, or need to appeal a sentence.
What factors influence sentencing decisions?
Factors include the severity of the crime, prior criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.
Can I appeal my sentence?
Yes, you can appeal your sentence if you believe there was an error in the legal process or the sentence was excessive.
What types of sentences can I receive?
Sentences can include fines, community service, probation, or imprisonment, depending on the crime and circumstances.