What does the process of "sentencing" involve?

Sentencing is a critical phase in the criminal justice system that occurs after a defendant has been found guilty of a crime. This process specifically involves determining the appropriate punishment for the convicted individual. It takes into consideration various factors, including the nature of the crime, any prior criminal history, and statutory guidelines that may dictate the range of possible sentences.

In the context of sentencing, the court assesses the severity of the offense and the circumstances surrounding both the crime and the defendant. This can lead to various forms of punishment, which might include incarceration, probation, fines, or community service, among other options. The goal of sentencing can vary from retribution and deterrence to rehabilitation, depending on the specifics of the case and the legal framework in place.

The other options relate to different aspects of the criminal justice process but do not pertain to the sentencing phase. Reviewing evidence is part of prosecutorial decision-making and occurs during trial preparations. Negotiating plea agreements is a pre-trial process where the prosecution and defense come to mutual terms, potentially avoiding trial altogether. Assessing the need for a grand jury is a procedural step that happens earlier in the process, typically involved in determining whether there is enough evidence to formally charge a defendant with a crime. Thus, the