
Are Sentencing Guidelines Mandatory?
Sentencing guidelines are not mandatory. They are advisory. But your sentence might still include a mandatory minimum.
Sentencing guidelines are not mandatory. They are advisory. But your sentence might still include a mandatory minimum.
The EQUAL Act was bipartisan legislation with widespread public support. Now it's stuck in the Senate. Why?
In 27 states and the federal system, the death penalty is still used as punishment for crimes in capital cases.
While plea deals are very common, a court does not have to accept a plea deal. If a judge refuses to accept a deal, the case moves forward.
Community service sentences are an alternative to incarceration that benefits the defendant and the community.
Some states like Michigan base their sentences on prior record variables. Make sure your PRV score is correct at sentencing.
Some states like Michigan base their sentences on offense variables. It's crucial that you make sure your OV score is correct at sentencing.
There are situations in which you can file a motion for resentencing, but those situations are limited in criminal cases.
Whether you're in state court or federal court, the sentencing guidelines will play a role in your sentence no matter what.
The Presentence Investigation Report has a huge impact during sentencing, but its impact extends far beyond that.