Preparing for the District Court Sentencing Hearing

This topic outlines the process and procedures required when preparing for attendance in a district court sentencing hearing.

Court sentencing list

Check the court list for sentencing matters. Identify which sentencing matters will be called and which court to attend.
Take copies of each court report available, including copies not collected by counsel and/or the offender.
Establish the time sentencing will commence, ensuring time is allowed to adequately set up before court.

Note: CPPS attendance is required in court if home detention (HD) is being recommended.

Follow the steps below to review the reports prior to sentencing.

Step	Action
1	Familiarise yourself with the content of the reports.
2	Note any issues with the reports, such as inconsistent recommendations or major errors.
3	Give consideration to any questions that may be raised by the judge and/or the lawyer in respect of the reports.
4	For offenders who are on-strength, note any progress since the report was written.
5	Note if the court will need to make a determination in respect of section 78(2) of the Sentencing Act 2002 (i.e. if an offender is currently subject to a community-based sentence and is subsequently sentenced to imprisonment for less than 12 months).
6	Consider if: any current sentences may need to be cancelled, or it is appropriate to request that any post detention conditions or release on conditions be discharged.
7	Ensure any associated reports (i.e. reparation, psychological reports) are attached.

Check with the court to establish if any additional CPPS matters such as breaches/applications are to be called in during the sentencing lists.

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