Describe the sentencing process.

Description should include

• the probation officer’s role in the pre-sentence investigation
• the judge’s discretion in sentencing and statutory mandates
• types of sentencing (i.e., withhold findings, suspended sentence, incarceration, and community service)
• concurrent sentence vs. consecutive sentence
• the goals of sentencing (e.g., retribution, rehabilitation, incapacitation, deterrence, restoration)
• capital crimes and the death penalty.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What are the implications of the death penalty for capital crimes?
• What are correctional strategies used to meet various sentencing goals?
• What is the purpose of establishing sentencing guidelines?
• What are the types of sentences offered in Virginia?