sentencing guideline

A sentencing guideline is a set of standards used by courts to determine the appropriate punishment for a person convicted of a crime. It considers factors like the severity of the offense, prior criminal history, and specific details of the crime. These guidelines aim to promote consistency and fairness in sentencing across different cases, helping judges decide on appropriate penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment. While they serve as a helpful framework, judges may sometimes deviate from them based on individual circumstances.