Sentencing is based upon 4 key principles: **Parsimony**: The punishment is *no more severe than necessary*. **Proportionality:** The punishment must be *proportionate* to the gravity of the offending. **Parity:** The punishment should have a *similar sentence* for *similar offences* and circumstances. **Totality:** Any offender serving multiple sentences must have an *overall punishment* that is just an appropriate of the overall offending. >[!Important] The Purposes of Sentencing >As outlined at s. 5(1) Sentencing Act 1991. >1. *Just* punishment; and >2. *Deterrence* (specific + general); and >3. *Rehabilitation*; and >4. *Denunciation*/condemnation of the offending; and >5. Community *protection* # Factors of Sentencing ![[53.01 Sentencing Factors]] # Relating s. 5(1) The only purpose for which sentences may be imposed are: 1. **Punish** accused to extent and in manner which is **just**; or 2. **Deter** (*general*/*specific*) accused / others from committing offences of similar character; or 3. Establish conditions that provide **rehabilitation** to accused; or 4. Manifest **denunciation** of the type of conduct by the accused; or 5. **protect community** from accused