4. Prepare for your sentencing hearing

You or your lawyer should explain how serving a conditional sentence would:

• help you rehabilitate
• follow the principles of sentencing

Before you’re sentenced, gather documents such as:

• letters of support from employers or agencies where you have volunteered
• proof of a job or offers of a job
• personal letters of reference
• proof that you have enrolled in rehabilitation programs

Make the court aware of any obligations you have related to:

• childcare
• your job
• going to school
• taking care of your health

At your sentencing hearing, the judge will also consider:

• your criminal record
• your personal history
• the circumstances of the crime
• what the victim has said about the crime

The judge decides your sentence based on what they think is appropriate and reasonable.