Addressing the Needs of a Defendant Through Sentencing

Every defendant is different and has various needs. A sentencing consultant can work with a criminal defense lawyer to help ensure a defendant’s needs are addressed through sentencing, as this can help ensure a better future for the individual.

Defendants Have Needs, Too

So often when a person is charged with a crime, their needs are forgotten and go unmet. This can negatively affect a defendant not only in the short term, but in the long run as well.

You can begin to address a defendant’s needs long before sentencing. However, to ensure defendants’ needs continue to be met, it’s important to plan and work toward a favorable goal. Ensuring a defendant’s needs are met through sentencing can have a lasting impact.

The Criminal Justice System Doesn’t Always Address a Defendant's Needs

Several factors go into the decision-making process regarding a defendant’s sentence. Usually, sentences are centered around punishment. Rarely does a judge seriously consider a defendant’s needs and make provisions to meet these needs.

This is one of the primary reasons why advocacy is so important. Leaving it up to chance is never a good idea. Creating a strong strategy and efficiently preparing for trial can assist with achieving a beneficial outcome.

Guidance and Support Defendants Need Most

A defendant can have many needs, but two of the most important revolve around mental health and treatment. With the help of a sentencing consultation, a defendant could get the assistance they need while they serve their sentence.

Mental Health

Mentally, criminal defendants go through an unimaginable rollercoaster of thoughts and emotions. This can cause mental health struggles on its own and exacerbate any mental condition a defendant has a history of.

Defendants can suffer from mental illness like anyone else, including anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Many of these conditions require continued care, like therapy and medication, which can easily fall by the wayside.

A sentencing consultant can pre-screen defendants to determine whether there is a history of mental health issues. Then, the consultant can identify the type of therapy they’d benefit from and facilitate access to quality treatment during the defendant’s sentence.

Treatment

Aside from mental health support, many criminal defendants require treatment for other health issues, like addiction. Addiction can wreak havoc on a person’s life and is often one of the factors that contribute to the commission of crimes.

A sentencing consultant can pave the way for a defendant to get the help they need. Regardless of whether the defendant is sentenced to jail or probation, they can arrange for the individual to attend a treatment program and meet with experts as needed.

Sentencing Should Be Personal

Regardless of what many think, no two sentences should be the same. Especially when a defendant has specific needs that should be addressed at the time of their sentencing.

A defendant can serve their time while also getting the help and attention they deserve. A sentencing consultant can work with the criminal defense attorney to outline sentencing goals and work toward getting the client a sentence that fits their needs. Addressing a defendant’s needs can positively impact their outlook and future.

Experience Compassionate, Skilled Legal Advocacy at Andreas Associates, LLC.

With over 20 years of expertise, Lisa Andreas MSW, LCSW, CDBT delivers top-tier court reports tailored to your case and your or your clients’ personal history. Our satisfied clients attest to our excellence. When you need legal advocacy, trust Andreas Associates, LLC. Your success is our commitment. Contact us today.