Rapid Change in Sentencing Processes Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Rapid Change in Sentencing Processes - Essay Example In addition, use of evidence-based research has also enhanced fairness in the sentencing process. In a bid to promote peace and unity in the country through the sentencing and correction process, the state adopted the restorative and community justice (Allen, Latessa and Ponder, 2009). This program provides new ways of viewing and responding to crimes in the country. The fundamental assumption of this program is that crime is destructive and results in poor relationship ties in the community. The sentence decision-making process involves the offender and the victim with the rest of community members free to contribute their views. Though this program is in effect in the country, it is only useful in limited cases. The program is adopted in cases that involve juveniles and minor offenses in the society. In addition, the decision of the Supreme Court to abolish the mandatory use of federal sentencing guidelines also impacted positively on the sentencing process. In the past decades, the government expected judges to follow the federal guidelines strictly to determine cases. These guidelines provided a range of jail terms for different cases committed. Besides the guidelines provided exact fines for various offenses committed. The decision of the Supreme Court gave judges freedom to perform their work efficiently. The decision meant judges were at liberty to make their decisions concerning sentencing and fines for various crimes. Although the decision gave judges freedom, the decisions they make must be rational and wise. The need for fairness and independence of judges and other arbitrators necessitated this decision. Furthermore, it also brought the much-needed fairness in the judicial system for both the judges and the victims. In addition, the judicial system adopted evidence-based corrections (Mackenzie, 2001). Currently, the legal system uses research-based evidence as opposed to the previous verbal based corrections. The sentencing