Formal sanctions against criminals

• court sentences can be:

  • custodial sentences
  • community sentences
  • fines
  • discharge
• custodial sentences are imprisonment. prisoners serving a life sentence are usually eligible to apply for parole after about 15 years. up until 2012, courts could impose indeterminate sentences (ones without a specific release date) if the offender is a danger to the public.
• community sentences are served in the community rather than in jail. they include probation orders, restrictions such as curfews, attendance on anger management courses, mandatory drug testing and treatment orders and community payback.
• fines are financial penalties. the size of the fine depends on the seriousness of the offence, whether it is a repeat offence and the offender’s ability to pay. offenders may be allowed to pay in instalments
• police sanctions can be:

  • cautions
  • conditional cautions
  • penalty notices for disorder
• cautions are warnings that can be given by the police or crown prosecution service to anyone aged 10 or over for minor crimes such as graffiti. they are intended for low-level, first-time offending. you must admit to the offence and agree to be cautioned.
• conditional cautions mean you have to stick to certain rules and restrictions such as going to treatment for drug abuse. if you break the conditions, you could be charged with a crime.
• penalty notices for disorder can be issued for minor crimes such as shoplifting or possession of cannabis. you won’t get a conviction if you pay the penalty. if you disagree with the penalty notice, you can go to trial instead.
• other implications of committing a criminal act:

  • exclusion from certain occupations
  • they may be placed on the violent and sex offenders register
  • banned from travelling to certain countries or require special visas
  • restrictions on adoption, jury service and standing for elected office