Guilty Plea
In criminal matters, you will be required to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty for each of your charges.
Entering a plea of Guilty
Entering a plea of guilty indicates that you accept responsibility for your actions and the charges.
Sentence Considerations upon Entering a Plea of Guilty
The Courts will often order a less severe sentence at a plea, than if the matter proceeded to a Contested Hearing or Trial and you were found guilty.
In sentencing, the Magistrate or Judge will consider the following:
- Responsibility and participation in the offending;
- Any explanation for that offending;
- Any explanation or legal submission which may contribute to the Court in determining a Sentence which is lighter than what would ordinarily be considered;
- Criminal history;
- Victim Impact Statement;
- Principles of punishment which are:
- Punishment
- Community Protection
- Rehabilitation
- Deterrence (Specific and General)
- Denunciation
At Hutchinson Legal, we strive to provide you with advice with regards to your matter and the most likely sentence at either a plea or at contest.
