Illinois law requires a sentencing judge in a criminal case to consider a series of factors when determining a sentence to impose upon a defendant who has been convicted of a crime. There are factors in aggravation, which suggest a harsher sentence, and factors in mitigation, which suggest a lighter sentence. Those factors and additional guidance as to sentencing are
Factors in Aggravation and Mitigation
Sentencing Guidelines and Factors in Iowa Criminal Cases
In Iowa criminal cases, the sentencing judge is instructed by Iowa Code section 901.5 to consider certain guidelines and factors in determining what sentence to impose. This article discusses that sentencing process in Iowa criminal cases.