Objectives of Different Criminal Penalties

The criminal justice system intends to penalize those who have engaged in activities that are determined by the law to cause deliberate harm to others or which have a detrimental effect on society. One of the fundamental principles of criminal law in the United States is that the individual who is accused of a crime must be proven guilty beyond the doubt of a reasonable person, a conclusion that is to be supported by the agreement of all members of a jury. Unfortunately, despite the merits of the system as it is designed, the realities are often far different.

If you are facing criminal prosecution, it is critically important that you secure committed and experienced legal representation. To discuss your case, contact the Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys of Hart Powell, S.C., at (414) 271-9595 today.

Purpose of a Criminal Sentence

The nature and severity of the punishments associated with a criminal conviction will depend largely upon the crime in question, the defendant’s past history, and the circumstances surrounding the incident. The following are some of the different kinds of penalties that one might encounter:

  • Restitution – a criminal pays an amount that is deemed to have been lost by the aggrieved parties or which is regarded as reflecting the severity of the crime.
  • Rehabilitation – aims to prevent convicted persons from engaging in criminal behaviors in the future.
  • Incarceration – seeks to separate convicted individuals from society so as to limit their ability to cause further harm.

Contact Us

The Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys of Hart Powell, S.C., are passionate about fighting for the rights of their clients. If you have been charged with a crime, there is no time to waste. Contact us by calling (414) 271-9595.

Written by Michael Hart & Craig Powell

Last Updated : January 13, 2016