The sentence imposed after a criminal conviction can be substantially different from one case to the next. Florida state statutes provide guidelines regarding the minimum and maximum sentences possible for different offenses.
Some of the sentencing process is also left to the discretion of the courts. Judges and juries learn about potentially mitigating factors that reduce the criminal culpability of a defendant. They may also hear about aggravating factors that may make a particular criminal offense more serious than other crimes of a similar nature.
Those facing felony charges are often at risk of particularly serious penalties. The state’s sentencing scoresheet plays an important role in determining the final sentence imposed after a criminal conviction in Florida.
What is a sentencing scoresheet?
Florida provides a multi-page document that allows for the clear assessment of various factors that influence the final sentence imposed. The sheet has space for outlining information about related criminal charges and prior criminal convictions.
There is also a section to outline any injuries sustained by victims, as well as information about escape attempts or any failure to appear in court. The state can add points for those already on probation and for those accused of a crime with a serious prior felony conviction. There are also aggravating factors that can lead to the state applying a multiplier to the number calculated.
These details receive a numerical value, which in turn influences the sentence points. If the number of sentence points is below a specific threshold, the courts must impose a sentence of probation. If the points are above that threshold, they may determine whether the defendant serves their sentence in state jail or prison.
Judges do typically have the authority to impose a sentence below the one recommended by the sentencing scorecard, so long as they do not reduce the sentence below any mandatory minimum sentence rules that apply.
Those concerned about a sentence that the courts might impose after a felony conviction may need help understanding how details about their own record and the allegations against them could alter the sentence ultimately imposed by the courts. Discussing the unique circumstances of a pending criminal charge with an experienced Florida defense attorney can help people understand how the state’s sentencing scorecard might ultimately affect the sentence handed down by the courts.