Criminal Sentencing

This course will examine various aspects of the state sentencing process as it pertains to criminal charges and convictions. It will provide an overview of the legal and societal objectives underlying the imposition of sentences. This course will also explore (1) factors deemed relevant to sentencing decisions such as race, criminal history, and applicable minimum and maximum punishments, (2) the various forms of punishment that comprise sentencing, (3) the collateral consequences that sentencing has on impacted individuals, and (4) the role defense attorneys, prosecutors, and judges have in sentencing individuals charged with crimes. The course will briefly discuss the differences between the federal and state sentencing processes. This course aims to be an interactive discussion with students and there will be a final graded paper