Sentencing the multiple offender

This study examines the approach of Victorian judges to the determination of sentencing for an offender convicted of multiple offences. Justice in sentencing requires fair, coherent and openly stated policies, and their consistent application in sentencing judgments. What is offered here is a description of current practices, as well as the legal principles underpinning them. Given that a substantial percentage of criminal cases involve a multiple offender and that the majority of offences are committed by repeat offenders, the sentencing of such offenders is a matter of significant public policy interest. The empirical work undertaken in this study indicates that there is a need to develop a more detailed and comprehensive set of sentencing principles and an associated numerical framework for guidance.