Sentencing

Appeals court confirms Utah man’s life sentence for kidnapping

A Salt Lake City appeals court recently affirmed the life sentence of a Utah man for his conviction of aggravated kidnapping. The man appealed his sentence alleging that the judge abused his discretion in sentencing him to life without parole. The appeals court characterized the man’s life sentence as “troubling” because this harsh punishment is …

Appeals court confirms Utah man’s life sentence for kidnapping Read More »

Salt Lake County explores alternatives to prison for some cases

The United States incarcerates criminal offenders faster than any other country-so fast that prison capacity is an ongoing problem. As part of Salt Lake County’s push to improve its criminal justice system, officials are considering a big alternative to prison sentences. Not every criminal defendant belongs in prison and Salt Lake City hopes that a …

Salt Lake County explores alternatives to prison for some cases Read More »

New study’s findings on judges and mental disorder sentences

The University of Utah in Salt Lake City released a new study last week, concluding that judges impose lower sentences when the defendant presents a biological explanation of a mental disorder. The national study could have implications for criminal defense strategies. Researchers asked over 180 judges from 19 states about a hypothetical case based on …

New study’s findings on judges and mental disorder sentences Read More »

Call Now