What are the rules of sentencing in criminal cases?

In Indiana, criminal sentencing is governed by the Indiana Criminal Code. Minimum and maximum sentences for all criminal offenses are set by this code. The court must look at the seriousness of the crime, the defendant’s prior criminal history, and other relevant factors when deciding a sentence. The court has a few sentencing options. It can impose a fine and probation. A fine is a set amount of money that the defendant must pay for their crime. Probation is a period of time that the defendant must meet certain conditions, such as attending counseling or community service. The court can also impose jail or prison time. Jail time is generally for less serious crimes and is served in a local or county jail. Prison time is reserved for more serious crimes and is served in a state prison. The court can also order restitution. This is a payment from the defendant to the victim of the crime. The court can also put the defendant on house arrest or some other form of supervised release. In Indiana, life without parole is the maximum sentence for criminal offenses. This is when a person is sentenced to prison for life without the possibility of parole. In any type of criminal sentencing, the court has the legal authority to go below or above the minimum and maximum sentences set by the code. It is ultimately the court’s discretion as to how a defendant is sentenced for a crime.

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