If you are a defendant who has been convicted of a criminal offense in Lexington, KY, you may not realize just how important it is to have an experienced lawyer by your side at sentencing. In these cases, the sentence usually ranges quite a bit, and the judge often has significant discretion. By working with a Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers, you increase your chances of receiving a fair penalty that fits your circumstances. Contact us at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington sentencing hearings lawyer at 859-569-4014.
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How Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help With Your Sentencing
If you’re facing criminal charges or have been convicted of an offense in Lexington, KY, it’s essential to work with an experienced legal professional. Here’s how we can help you:
- We explain all potential sentencing options to you so you know what to expect going forward.
- We gather and present details about your background, such as steady employment or family responsibilities, that may work in your favor during sentencing.
- We talk with the prosecution to explore options like probation, community service, or treatment programs.
No matter what changes you’re facing in Lexington, Kentucky, we’re here for you. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Sentencing in Kentucky
In Kentucky, sentencing usually follows guidelines that set an upper and lower limit for most crimes. The sentence determined by the court reflects factors specific to each individual’s situation. Although the outcome tends to stay within the recommended range, judges in many instances can choose a penalty above or below those limits. This discretion allows courts to hand out punishments in ways that take into account the unique elements of each case.
Understanding what you could be looking at is helpful for anyone who is facing criminal charges or a sentencing hearing. In Kentucky, the sentencing ranges usually follow the below guidelines:
- Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 12 months in jail and a $500 fine
- Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail and a $250 fine
- Class D Felony: Between 1 and 5 years in prison
- Class C Felony: Between 5 and 10 years in prison
- Class B Felony: Between 10 and 20 years in prison
- Class A Felony: Between 20 and 50 years in prison
- Capital Felony: Life without parole or the death sentence
The exact sentence will depend on the specific charge and other factors that the court will take into consideration.
Factors and Evidence That Influence Sentencing
When you go before a judge in Kentucky for sentencing, there is a lot of information and certain factors that can affect the final outcome. Below are a few factors that influence the sentence you receive:
- Criminal History: If you have previous convictions, it will influence the severity of your penalty. If your previous convictions are related to the crime you’re currently facing sentencing for, it’s likely that the penalties will be even more severe.
- Impact on the Victim: The judge will usually weigh how your crime has affected the victim. If they’ve been seriously harmed and/or inconvenienced in some way, you’re likely to face a harsher sentence.
- Aggravating or Mitigating Circumstances: If you acted under pressure or had a lesser role in the crime, these facts might help reduce your punishment. If something reveals a more serious level of wrongdoing, it would lead to increased penalties.
- The Severity of the Offense: The more severe the crime, the more severe your sentence will be. Felonies are sentenced more harshly than misdemeanors. You’re also likely to face significant penalties for violent crimes and other offenses that actively and directly harm another person.
- Personal Background: Your work history, family responsibilities, educational pursuits, and community involvement can influence the way a judge views your case. Evidence that you’ve overall been a productive member of society can help reduce your sentence.
- Steps You’ve Taken Since Conviction: Any positive actions you’ve taken since your conviction, such as attending counseling, finishing an educational program, seeking drug or alcohol addiction treatment, or performing community service, can show the court that you’re taking responsibility and trying to turn your life around. This kind of evidence may result in a less severe sentence that reflects your willingness to better yourself.
These are just some of the factors that influence sentencing. When you work with an attorney, they will do everything possible to make sure you receive the most lenient sentence possible.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Lexington Criminal Defense Attorney
When you have been convicted of a crime and are facing a sentencing hearing in Lexington, Kentucky, you want a strong advocate on your side. A criminal defense lawyer can gather details that show your positive efforts and present a persuasive argument for a fair outcome. When you work with us, we will do everything we can to ensure you receive the most fair sentence possible that impacts your life in the least significant way.
Let us help you face this challenging situation. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington sentencing hearings lawyer.
