SOCI-225 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Suspended Sentence, Presentence Investigation Report, Halfway House
10 Jan 2021
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If the accused is found guilty the judge will select criminal punishment from the sentencing options available. Commonly applied sentences in canada include an absolute or a conditional discharge, probation, incarceration, a suspended sentence, and a fine. A judge may decide to combine two of these sentences, such as a period of incarceration with a fine. The sentence depends in large part on the charges the individual was found guilty of and the prior record of the offender. In a few instances, a judge has no choice in setting the penalty. For example, a judge who finds an offender guilty of first or second degree murder must sentence the accused to life imprisonment with no chance for parole for a specified number of years. In many instances, a judge also relies on a presentence report compiled by a probation officer. This report may evaluate such things as the employment record of the offender and any family support.
