LAW-30089: Principles of Sentencing

To examine the aims of sentencing, the process and practice of sentencing, and the use of methods of controlling juidicial discretion in sentencing, especially sentencing guidelines. The main focus is on sentencing in England and Wales, but some consideration will be given to other jurisdictions.

Intended Learning Outcomes

articulate and critically compare the competing philosophical principles which underlie the sentencing of offenders in England and Wales, having regard to the aims of sentencing set out in statute, with some reference to sentencing systems elsewhere.

will be achieved by assessments: 1
offer a critical overview of the sentencing process, including appeals and the system for creation of sentencing guidelines which operates in England and Wales, and to consider reform.

will be achieved by assessments: 1
examine critically and manipulate statistics on sentencing, and discern evidence of disparity. will be achieved by assessments: 1
assess the potential for fairness, consistency, non-discrimination and effectiveness in current sentencing policy and practice, and to consider reform. will be achieved by assessments: 1

Study hours

Tutorial/lecture class 9 x two hours = 18 hours
Tutorial preparation = 54 hours
Essay preparation/background reading = 78 hours
Total = 150 hours

Description of Module Assessment

01: Essay weighted 100%

ESSAY - 4,000 WORDS
Research based assignment, based on a choice of essay titles.

02: Exercise

Practice exercise based on a sentencing case
A short assessment designed to test students' understanding of relevant sentencing issues

Version: (1.05A) Created: 01/Oct/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.