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Appealing a Sentence in Canada

Appealing a Sentence in Canada

In order to appeal a sentence, the first step is to file a form called a “Notice of Appeal.” In a Notice of Appeal, you must state what you are appealing, such as a conviction, sentence or both, and in addition, explain the mistakes that you believe were made during the trial. The Notice of Appeal must be filed within 30 days. Judges may allow an appeal against a conviction only if they are satisfied about the following: 1) The conviction at trial was unreasonable, 2) The trial court made a mistake with respect to the law, 3) There was a miscarriage of justice

Factors That Affect Sentencing

Indicates whether the defendant has reached an agreement with the prosecution to enter a guilty plea in exchange for a reduced sentence, or whether the defendant has provided information or assistance to the authorities during the investigation or prosecution of the case.
Refers to circumstances that may lessen the defendant’s degree of responsibility or moral culpability for the crime. For example, the defendant acted under duress or coercion, or because it was necessary to prevent greater harm.
The evidence or arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defence that could affect the penalty, such as evidence of the defendant’s previous bad acts or mitigating factors such as mental illness or addiction.
Indicates the military service, public service or other merits which could affect the conviction.
Refers to the specific laws, policies and case law in the jurisdiction where the offence was committed that may affect the sentence. For example, mandatory minimum sentences, sentencing guidelines, or prevailing community views on punishment.
The extent to which the defendant has cooperated with the police and other authorities in the investigation and prosecution of his own case may be a factor in sentencing. Cooperation may demonstrate acceptance of responsibility and may be considered by the court as a mitigating factor.
Age and any physical or mental health problems may play a role in a court deciding on a suitable sentence.
The defendant’s role in the commission of the offence may affect their sentence. A principal or a conspirator may receive a more severe sentence than someone who helped or played a minor role.
A defendant’s financial resources and ability to pay fines or other financial penalties may be considered in determining an appropriate sentence. The court may consider a defendant’s ability to pay restitution to the victim or victims and/or fines to the State.
Sentences can be affected by the aim to deter the accused and others from similar offences in the future.
Public safety and protection is a key consideration in sentencing A defendant who poses a significant threat to public safety may be sentenced more severely to ensure they cannot commit further offences.
The defendant’s potential for rehabilitation, or ability to be successfully treated or trained so as not to reoffend, may be taken into account in determining an appropriate sentence. A defendant who appears to have a high likelihood of successful rehabilitation may be sentenced more leniently.
Sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimums set by state or federal law can be a factor in determining a sentence. The court must follow these guidelines and mandatory minimums, though it may have some discretion in certain cases.
Statutory aggravating circumstances are elements of the crime or the defendant’s conduct that increase the severity of the sentence, while mitigating circumstances are elements that decrease the severity of the sentence. These factors are often specified in state or federal law.
Community and judicial views on the appropriate punishment for a particular offence can be a factor in sentencing; public opinion and the views of the judge or sentencing panel can influence the perceived severity of a particular sentence.
The extent to which the defendant has assisted the police or other authorities in investigating or prosecuting the offence may be considered as a sentencing factor.
The age and the mental and physical health of the defendant may be relevant in determining the sentence, as these factors may affect the defendant’s ability to understand the consequences of his or her actions and his or her potential for rehabilitation.
The role of the accused in the commission of the crime may also be taken into account, with those who played a leading or more active role often receiving more severe penalties.
This factor relates to the specific details and events surrounding the commission of the offence, including the means used and the extenuating and mitigating factors.
This factor considers the defendant’s previous criminal history, including any previous convictions, as well as the defendant’s previous sentencing history.
This factor takes into account the whole background of the defendant, including his or her education, employment, family situation and any history of drug or alcohol abuse.
This factor takes into account the defendant’s expression of remorse for the crime committed, including any apology or expression of regret.
This factor assesses the physical, emotional and financial harm suffered by the victim/s as a result of the crime and how it has affected their lives.

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