What does clemency mean in court?
The word clemency refers to acts of mercy shown by the court or by the state towards an individual who has been found guilty of a crime. Depending on the crime, the court may be able to spare the person from a harsh prison sentence by intervening on the behalf of the person. In some cases, the person may be sentenced to a lesser penalty or even be completely pardoned, which means that the charges against them are dismissed.
What is the meaning of clemency in court?
Most people will automatically assume that a clemency is a pardon, but it isn’t that simple. A clemency is the act of giving mercy to someone who has been sentenced to a punishment they didn’t deserve. Someone who is charged with a crime and denied a fair trial has the right to clemency from the court. A clemency will usually involve the removal of the conviction from the criminal record.
What does mitigation mean in court?
In the criminal justice system, mitigation is a term used to describe the case made for the defendant being punished less severely than what the prosecution is asking for. Ordinarily, mitigation is presented by the defense attorney for the accused during the sentencing phase of a trial. This is the opportunity for the defense to argue for a lighter penalty based on the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s background. For example, if the prosecution seeks a long prison sentence for a drug-related crime, the defense
What does mandatory clemency mean in court?
Mandatory clemency refers to the possibility of a judge or jury lowering or dismissing a felony conviction. The reason for doing so is to show mercy. For example, mandatory clemency could be granted if the crime was committed under the condition of mental illness or drug/alcohol addiction. However, mandatory clemency is rarely granted because it is not in the judge’s or jury’s power to do so.
What does mercy mean in court?
Even judges can be merciful. Sometimes, they will recognize that a person deserves a lesser punishment for their crime. If so, they will issue a mercy plea to the court. A mercy plea is essentially a request for clemency. It is an appeal to the judge to show mercy towards the criminal, and to reduce the punishment for a crime committed. It is not an argument that is presented for the sake of the defense. It is a request from the criminal to the judge.