leniency in sentencing

USAGE SUMMARY

"leniency in sentencing" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing judicial decisions or the degree of punishment given to a defendant. For example, "The judge showed leniency in sentencing due to the defendant's cooperation." Alternative expressions include "mercy in sentencing" and "clemency in sentencing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Wigley said: "The laws on leniency in sentencing need updating.

The Guardian

Judges have shown leniency in sentencing insider trading defendants who have admitted wrongdoing.

The New York Times

A low IQ, for example, can be used to argue leniency in sentencing.

MIT Technology Review

Dozens of suspected terrorists in the criminal system have coöperated with the government, usually in exchange for leniency in sentencing.

The New Yorker

Whatever their impact on cocaine cases, yesterday's decisions will probably accelerate a trend toward more leniency in sentencing.

The New York Times

But even in the most obscure cases, Ms. Gatto, like Mr. Weinstein, is aggressive in court, attacking the credibility of government witnesses and seeking leniency in sentencing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort has asked for leniency in his sentencing, and his lawyers are seeking a sentence "significantly below" the guidelines for the crimes he has been convicted of.

The Guardian

I made that decision based on Satan playing games with me and making me feel like I was prideful and unable to go to family members for help". Before Monday's sentencing, August's close friends, relatives and former coworkers submitted letters to the court, pleading for leniency in the sentencing process.

Los Angeles Times

Billy Martin, Vick's lead lawyer, asked for leniency in the sentencing.

The New York Times - Sports

Prosecutors cited Mr. Flynn's assistance as grounds for leniency in his sentencing.

The New York Times

Ms. Fermanova was before a Federal District Court judge in Brooklyn on Monday, begging for leniency in a sentencing hearing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When arguing for "leniency in sentencing", clearly articulate the mitigating factors and provide supporting evidence to strengthen your case.

Common error

Avoid using "leniency in sentencing" when the defendant is found not guilty. Leniency applies only when guilt is established, but a reduced sentence is being sought.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leniency in sentencing" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific aspect of the legal process. As Ludwig AI correctly points out, it references the act of a judge or court showing compassion or reducing the severity of a punishment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leniency in sentencing" refers to the act of showing compassion or reducing the severity of a punishment in a legal context. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and frequently used in legal and news contexts. The phrase functions as a noun phrase, is neutral in register, and appears most often in News & Media sources. Related phrases include "sentencing discretion", "clemency in sentencing", and "reduced sentence". When using the phrase, it's important to articulate mitigating factors and avoid confusing leniency with acquittal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

judicial leniency

Specifically attributes the leniency to the judge's actions or decisions.

clemency in sentencing

Uses a more formal term for mercy or leniency, suggesting a more official or legal context.

mercy in sentencing

Emphasizes the compassionate aspect of reducing a sentence.

mitigation of sentence

Focuses on reducing the severity of a sentence based on mitigating circumstances.

reduced sentence

Highlights the outcome of leniency, focusing on the decreased punishment.

sentencing discretion

Focuses on the judge's power to make sentencing decisions, rather than the act of leniency itself.

light sentence

Describes the result of leniency, referring to a less severe punishment.

alternative sentencing

Indicates options other than traditional incarceration, which may reflect leniency.

soft sentence

An informal term for a lenient or mild punishment.

a break in sentencing

An informal term emphasizing an unexpected or exceptional act of leniency.

FAQs

How is "leniency in sentencing" typically requested in court?

Lawyers often present mitigating circumstances, such as the defendant's cooperation with authorities, a clean criminal record, or personal hardships, to persuade the judge to show "judicial leniency".

What factors might influence a judge to grant "leniency in sentencing"?

A judge might consider factors like the defendant's age, mental state, remorse, acceptance of responsibility, and the potential for rehabilitation. Community support and victim forgiveness can also play a role.

Is "leniency in sentencing" guaranteed if a defendant cooperates with the prosecution?

No, cooperation is a significant factor, but it doesn't guarantee leniency. The final decision rests with the judge, who will weigh all evidence and circumstances. Cooperation is usually exchanged for a recommendation for "clemency in sentencing" by the prosecution.

What's the difference between "leniency in sentencing" and an appeal?

"Leniency in sentencing" is a request made during the initial sentencing hearing based on mitigating factors. An appeal, on the other hand, is a challenge to the conviction or sentence based on legal errors or insufficient evidence. Seeking "mitigation of sentence" does not imply questioning of the legal grounds of the trial.