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Sentencing Advice and Mitigation

Guidance on what to expect at sentencing, mitigation preparation, and practical next steps, including Legal Aid advice where applicable.

If you have a sentencing date or a pre-sentence report appointment, early preparation can help.

Prepare Properly for Sentencing

Sentencing can be stressful, especially if you do not know what to expect. A solicitor can explain the process, what mitigation means, and how to prepare useful information before your hearing.

This service focuses on practical preparation, including mitigation, pre-sentence reports, and character references. Where Legal Aid may apply, a solicitor can also explain eligibility and next steps.

Note: Outcomes depend on the type of case and circumstances. A solicitor will advise what is appropriate for your situation and explain funding routes where relevant.

What This Service Can Help With

What to Expect at Sentencing

A clear explanation of how sentencing works, what the court may consider, and what happens on the day.

  • Process overview and key steps
  • Understanding what the court may focus on
  • Practical preparation for the hearing

Mitigation Preparation

Help understanding what mitigation is and what information may be relevant to present to the court.

  • Organising key personal and practical details
  • Understanding what helps vs what harms
  • Preparing a clear narrative for the court

Pre-sentence Reports

Guidance on what a pre-sentence report is and how to approach it, including what to prepare and what to avoid.

  • What to expect at the appointment
  • How to present information clearly
  • Understanding how the report can affect outcomes

Character References and Practical Evidence

Help understanding what makes a useful reference and what practical evidence can support mitigation.

  • What a good reference includes
  • Supporting documents where relevant
  • How to organise what you have

How Our Network Supports You

Clear Explanation

Understand what sentencing involves and what to expect.

Practical Preparation

Get organised with mitigation, reports, and references.

Funding Guidance

Legal Aid eligibility explanation where relevant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mitigation?

Mitigation is information that helps the court understand your circumstances and what should be taken into account at sentencing. A solicitor can explain what is relevant in your situation.

Do character references help?

Sometimes, yes. A solicitor can explain what makes a reference useful and what is best avoided.

Can Legal Aid apply at sentencing stage?

It depends on the case and eligibility rules. A solicitor can assess your situation and explain what support may be available.

Need Help Preparing for Sentencing?

Speak to a solicitor about mitigation, reports, references, and what to expect next.