How to prepare for a sentencing hearing in Queensland

If you are charged with a criminal offence in Queensland and you elect to plead guilty or are found guilty following a trial, the Court will sentence you for the offence. At the time of sentencing, you or your lawyer will have an opportunity to make submissions in respect of the sentence that the Court is about to impose on you.

In the Magistrates Court of Queensland, when making sentencing submissions, it is common practice for the defendant to tender mitigating documents to the Court. Mitigating documents can come in a variety of forms.

Character references

In most circumstances, it is appropriate to obtain and tender at least one character reference. Character references from employers are particularly valuable as they are able to demonstrate to the Court that you are a productive member of society.