With the preferred defense attorney Frederick, MD residents will have excellent representation throughout all phases of their criminal trial. At the end of their trial, the final phase, they will face sentencing. Unless you and attorney reach a plea agreement with the prosecutor, you need to understand the sentencing phase of the trial.

It is during the sentencing phase that the judge considers all of the evidence presented at trial and determines the convicted criminal's punishment or sentence. Sentence is very controversial because there is no set sentence for every crime. It can be both objective and subjective; the sentence usually depends upon the judge and how he or she interprets the information presented at trial. For this reason, you need an excellent attorney in Frederick, MD.

Determining the Sentence

A criminal sentence can be composed of one of three punishments: a fine, probation, incarceration. Furthermore, the penalty imposed by the judge can be a combination of the three punishments.

To determine the severity of the sentence the judge will first review the sentencing guidelines for the crime committed by the defendant in the local jurisdiction. The sentencing guidelines include both the crime and the criminal history of the person on trial. The reason the judge will look at a defendant's criminal history is to ensure a fair punishment. For example, a defendant convicted of murder who has a long history of violent crimes will receive a harsher sentence than a first time murderer with no criminal history. Judges can also look at special circumstances surrounding the case and character witnesses speaking for the defendant say the defense attorney in Frederick, MD.

More Than One Sentence

In many court cases the attorney in Frederick, MD will represent a defendant who is convicted of multiple crimes during one trial. When this occurs the judge is placed in a position requiring him to determine if the sentence he imposes for each crime should be served concurrently or consecutively. For example, a person convicted at trial of armed robbery and attempted murder and sentenced by the judge to fifteen years for each crime will serve both sentences at the same time €" totaling fifteen years or serve one sentence after the other for a total of thirty years.

Consistent Sentencing

Judges want their sentences to deter future criminals.They want them to punish the one who committed the criminal act and help rehabilitate the defendant. They want to protect citizens from criminals.

When sentences are consistent for crimes everyone knows the consequences for committing certain crimes. It is hoped this will deter people from committing crimes. What is most important is choosing the best representation as soon as possible after your arrest. Your defense attorney in Frederick, MD will represent you from the moment you make contact. Professional representation allows you to rest assured that when it comes to the sentencing phase of the trial you will receive a fair sentence. Do not put it off, make the right call. Call your attorney in Frederick, MD today.