One of the goals of a criminal lawyer is to minimise penalties for his or her client during the sentencing phase. Whether the client has gone to trial or is negotiating a plea deal, sentencing is a crucial aspect of the case.

Aggravating and Mitigating Factors

Many points are taken into consideration during sentencing. Prosecutors will use aggravating factors to try to strengthen the sentence, but a good criminal lawyer will know how to use mitigating factors in order to try to reduce the penalty. Some mitigating factors include:

•         A client’s record, previous to the incident.
•         No violence was involved in the incident.
•         No children or senior citizens were involved in the incident.
•         Client acted out of need, not greed.
•          Crime was not premeditated.
•          Client had physical or mental difficulties at the time of the incident.
•         Client cooperated with authorities, took responsibility for the crime, and feels remorse.
•          Client is young and/or a good candidate for rehabilitation.
•          Client has dependents and/or a job.

Don’t Delay!

If you have been charged with a crime, it’s very important to contact a criminal lawyer as soon as possible. Having legal representation from the outset can help with your defence strategy and avoid pitfalls.