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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
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2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
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1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
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Law
13 Dec 2025
642
3 pages
Sentencing in criminal law is a complex process with multiple aims and factors to consider. The types of... Show more
This page delves into the various aims of sentencing and the factors that influence sentencing decisions in the UK criminal justice system.
Retribution Punishment that fits the crime.
Example Tariff sentences where each offence has a set punishment.
Denunciation Expressing society's disapproval.
Highlight The sentence should reflect the blameworthiness of the act.
Incapacitation Preventing further crimes.
Example Long-term prison sentences to keep dangerous offenders away from society.
Deterrence Discouraging future criminal behavior.
Highlight Sentences may be above the norm to serve as a deterrent.
Rehabilitation Reforming the offender.
Example Individualized sentences aimed at addressing the offender's specific needs.
Reparation Compensating the victim.
Example Compensation orders and unpaid community work.
The Offence
Example Previous convictions, offending while on bail, use of a weapon.
Example Cooperation with police, remorse, mental or physical illnesses.
Background of the Defendant
Highlight As of October 2020, new guidelines encourage courts to take an individualized approach for offenders with mental disorders.
This page outlines the 4 main types of sentencing available in the UK criminal justice system, ranging from custodial sentences to non-custodial options.
Mandatory Life Sentences
Definition Sentences reserved exclusively for murder cases. Highlight Starting points range from 15 years to life, with whole life orders for the most dangerous offenders.
Discretionary Life Sentences
Example Used for serious offences like manslaughter, rape, and grievous bodily harm under Section 18. Highlight Judges have discretion to propose lower sentences based on case specifics.
Fixed Term Sentences
Definition Imprisonment for a set period, with automatic release typically after serving half the sentence.
Suspended Sentences
Definition A custodial sentence that is suspended for a specified period, allowing the offender to avoid immediate imprisonment if they comply with certain conditions.
Community Orders
Definition Sentences that allow courts to apply various requirements tailored to the offender. Example Curfews, supervision requirements, treatment programs, and unpaid work.
Fines
Highlight The most common sentence in magistrates' courts, applicable to almost all crimes except murder. Example The court considers the offender's ability to pay when setting the fine amount.
Discharges
Definition The offender is free but must not reoffend for a specified period (up to 3 years).
Definition The offender is released without formal punishment but retains a criminal record.
Highlight The difference between custodial and non-custodial sentences lies in whether the offender is imprisoned. Custodial sentences involve imprisonment, while non-custodial sentences allow the offender to remain in the community under certain conditions or restrictions.
Sentencing is a crucial aspect of the criminal justice system, determining the consequences for those convicted of crimes. This page introduces the concept of sentencing and sets the stage for a deeper exploration of its aims and types.
Definition Sentencing refers to the process of determining and imposing a punishment on a person convicted of a crime.
Highlight Understanding sentencing is essential for comprehending how the justice system balances punishment, deterrence, and rehabilitation.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
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English LiteratureApp Store
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Sentencing in criminal law is a complex process with multiple aims and factors to consider. The types of sentencing in criminal law range from custodial sentences to community orders and fines. Judges must balance the 5 purposes of sentencing:... Show more
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This page delves into the various aims of sentencing and the factors that influence sentencing decisions in the UK criminal justice system.
Retribution: Punishment that fits the crime.
Example: Tariff sentences where each offence has a set punishment.
Denunciation: Expressing society's disapproval.
Highlight: The sentence should reflect the blameworthiness of the act.
Incapacitation: Preventing further crimes.
Example: Long-term prison sentences to keep dangerous offenders away from society.
Deterrence: Discouraging future criminal behavior.
Highlight: Sentences may be above the norm to serve as a deterrent.
Rehabilitation: Reforming the offender.
Example: Individualized sentences aimed at addressing the offender's specific needs.
Reparation: Compensating the victim.
Example: Compensation orders and unpaid community work.
The Offence
Example: Previous convictions, offending while on bail, use of a weapon.
Example: Cooperation with police, remorse, mental or physical illnesses.
Background of the Defendant
Highlight: As of October 2020, new guidelines encourage courts to take an individualized approach for offenders with mental disorders.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
This page outlines the 4 main types of sentencing available in the UK criminal justice system, ranging from custodial sentences to non-custodial options.
Mandatory Life Sentences
Definition: Sentences reserved exclusively for murder cases. Highlight: Starting points range from 15 years to life, with whole life orders for the most dangerous offenders.
Discretionary Life Sentences
Example: Used for serious offences like manslaughter, rape, and grievous bodily harm under Section 18. Highlight: Judges have discretion to propose lower sentences based on case specifics.
Fixed Term Sentences
Definition: Imprisonment for a set period, with automatic release typically after serving half the sentence.
Suspended Sentences
Definition: A custodial sentence that is suspended for a specified period, allowing the offender to avoid immediate imprisonment if they comply with certain conditions.
Community Orders
Definition: Sentences that allow courts to apply various requirements tailored to the offender. Example: Curfews, supervision requirements, treatment programs, and unpaid work.
Fines
Highlight: The most common sentence in magistrates' courts, applicable to almost all crimes except murder. Example: The court considers the offender's ability to pay when setting the fine amount.
Discharges
Definition: The offender is free but must not reoffend for a specified period (up to 3 years).
Definition: The offender is released without formal punishment but retains a criminal record.
Highlight: The difference between custodial and non-custodial sentences lies in whether the offender is imprisoned. Custodial sentences involve imprisonment, while non-custodial sentences allow the offender to remain in the community under certain conditions or restrictions.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sentencing is a crucial aspect of the criminal justice system, determining the consequences for those convicted of crimes. This page introduces the concept of sentencing and sets the stage for a deeper exploration of its aims and types.
Definition: Sentencing refers to the process of determining and imposing a punishment on a person convicted of a crime.
Highlight: Understanding sentencing is essential for comprehending how the justice system balances punishment, deterrence, and rehabilitation.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
34
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Quotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Criminology