Quoted:
Since we have a real life prosecutor here I thought I would ask.
Whenever I hear/read about a trial verdict they usually say sentencing will be several months later. Why does it take so long?
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Well it's like this. Unless there is an agreed to disposition by me, the defense attorney and the judge, there is time needed for what is called a PSI (pre sentence investigation). These can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks or a bit more depending on which courthouse. During this PSI, the complete historical background of the defendant will be put to paper. The victims will be asked what they think should happen as well. After all of that, the author of the PSI will place a recommendation on what the sentence should be. The court takes that into consideration as well as oral argument from the defense attorney and myself. And you are
correct, it does take a chunk of time.