The sentencing guidelines provide federal judges with fair and consistent sentencing ranges to consult at sentencing. The guidelines take into account both the seriousness of the criminal conduct and the defendant's criminal record.

What is the main purpose of sentencing?

Sentencing Purposes

These purposes are: just punishment – to punish the offender to an extent and in a way that is just in all the circumstances. deterrence – to deter the offender (specific deterrence) or other people (general deterrence) from committing offences of the same or a similar character.

Why was the federal sentencing guidelines created?

The Sentencing Reform Act of 1984

In 1984, Congress passed legislation that led to the creation of federal sentencing guidelines. ... The purpose of the Commission was to examine unwarranted disparity in federal sentencing policy, among other things.