A felony conviction in Florida often comes down to a single number. This number is your total score on a document called the Criminal Punishment Code scoresheet. Think of it as a legal calculator where points are added for the crime you’re charged with, your criminal history, and other specific factors. This final score is the foundation of the Florida sentencing guidelines and tells the judge the minimum sentence they can consider. Because every point can drastically change the outcome, it is vital to understand exactly how this system works and where your case stands within it.
Key Takeaways
- Know the math behind your sentence: Florida uses a points-based scoresheet for felony cases where your charge, criminal history, and other factors determine a score. Crossing the 44-point threshold creates a legal presumption for a prison sentence, making every point critical.
- The guidelines are a starting point, not the final word: Judges can issue a sentence above or below the recommended range if there are compelling legal reasons. These “departures” depend on mitigating or aggravating factors, which is why the specific details of your case matter so much.
- A strategic defense can influence the outcome: An experienced attorney’s role is to challenge the accuracy of your scoresheet calculation and to build a persuasive argument for leniency. Effectively presenting your story and mitigating circumstances to the court can make a significant difference in the final sentence.
What Are Florida’s Sentencing Guidelines?
When you’re facing a felony charge in Florida, one of the biggest questions is what kind of sentence you might receive. The state doesn’t leave this entirely up to a judge’s personal opinion. Instead, Florida uses a structured system called the Sentencing Guidelines, also known as the Criminal Punishment Code (CPC). This framework was created to make sentencing more consistent and predictable across the state.
The system works by assigning points based on the details of your case. The final point total helps determine the minimum sentence a judge can impose. Understanding how this works is a critical first step in preparing your defense. A skilled criminal defense attorney can analyze your scoresheet and identify the best strategy for your situation.
The Criminal Punishment Code Explained
Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code is essentially a point-based system used for all felony offenses. Think of it like a scoresheet where points are added up to calculate a sentence. Each crime is assigned an “offense level” from 1 to 10, which determines the base number of points.
From there, additional points can be added for various factors. These include your prior criminal record, whether a victim was injured during the offense, and other specific details of the case. The higher your total points, the more severe the recommended sentence becomes. The goal is to create a standardized starting point for judges to consider.
Why These Guidelines Exist
Before the 1980s, sentencing in Florida could be unpredictable. Two people who committed the same crime in different counties might receive vastly different punishments; one could get probation while the other got years in prison. This lack of consistency was seen as a major problem. Critics argued that this “sentencing disparity” was fundamentally unfair.
To fix this, Florida introduced the sentencing guidelines. The primary goal was to bring more uniformity and fairness to the process, ensuring that sentences were based on objective factors rather than just a single judge’s discretion. While judges still have some flexibility, the guidelines provide a clear and consistent framework for everyone involved in the Florida justice system.
How Does Florida’s Point System Work?
When you’re facing a felony charge in Florida, the sentencing process isn’t arbitrary. The state uses a detailed scoresheet, known as the Criminal Punishment Code (CPC), to calculate a recommended sentence. Think of it as a mathematical formula where different elements of your case are assigned points. The total number of points determines the minimum sentence a judge can impose, unless there are specific reasons to deviate.
This system was designed to create consistency in sentencing across the state. However, it’s a complex process with many variables. Every detail matters, from the specific charge to your personal history. An experienced attorney can analyze your scoresheet to ensure it’s calculated correctly and argue for the most favorable outcome. Understanding how these points are tallied is the first step in preparing a strong defense for your criminal defense case.
Calculating Points for the Primary Offense
The foundation of your scoresheet is the primary offense, which is the most serious crime you’re being charged with in your current case. Each felony offense in Florida is assigned a level from 1 to 10, with Level 10 being the most severe. The higher the level, the more points it carries. For example, a third-degree felony like grand theft might be a Level 1 or 2, while a more serious crime like robbery could be a Level 6 or higher.
These points create the starting number for your total score. From there, additional points are added based on other factors in your case. The goal is to keep this initial number as low as possible, which often involves challenging the severity of the primary charge itself.
Adding Points for Criminal History
Your past matters a great deal under Florida’s sentencing guidelines. The scoresheet adds points for any prior convictions on your record. The number of points depends on the seriousness of those past offenses. For instance, a history of serious felonies can add a significant number of points to your total score, making a prison sentence much more likely. In the most extreme cases, such as having a prior capital felony, the points for your current primary offense can be doubled.
This is why it’s so important to have a legal team that thoroughly reviews your criminal history. Errors can happen, and an old charge might be scored incorrectly. Ensuring your past is represented accurately is a key part of building a defense and can have a major impact on your case results.
Factoring in Victim Injury
If someone was harmed during the commission of the crime, the system adds a substantial number of points to your scoresheet. The law is very specific about this, assigning points based on the level of injury. According to the Florida Statutes, a death adds 120 points, a severe injury adds 40 points, and a moderate injury adds 18 points. Other specific types of harm, like sexual contact or penetration, also carry high point values.
Because these points can dramatically increase a sentence, any allegations of victim injury must be carefully examined. The prosecution has to prove the extent of the injury, and there can be room to challenge their claims. An effective defense will scrutinize the medical evidence and witness testimony related to any alleged harm.
Understanding Legal Status Points
The court also considers your legal status at the time the new offense was allegedly committed. If you were on probation, parole, or any other form of supervision, you will receive additional points. For example, committing a new crime while on probation adds 4 points. If you violated the terms of that supervision in some way, like failing a drug test or missing a meeting with your probation officer, that can add even more points.
These points are added because the system views committing a new offense while under court supervision as a more serious breach of trust. It shows the court that you were already given a chance to avoid incarceration and failed to follow the rules. This is another critical area where a skilled attorney from a firm like Galanter Law can make a difference by presenting your situation in the proper context.
What Happens if You Score Over 44 Points?
In Florida’s sentencing system, the number 44 is incredibly important. Think of it as a dividing line. If your total points on the sentencing scoresheet fall below this number, the court has more flexibility. But once you cross that line, the potential outcomes become much more serious, and the conversation shifts from “if” you will go to prison to “for how long.”
Understanding where you stand in relation to this number is one of the first steps in preparing for a sentencing hearing. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review every detail of your scoresheet to ensure the points are calculated correctly, as even a small error can have a massive impact on your freedom. This score isn’t just a number; it’s the key that determines the path your case will take.
Crossing the Critical Threshold
Scoring over 44 points on your Criminal Punishment Code scoresheet is the critical threshold where a prison sentence becomes the presumptive outcome. The sentencing guidelines are structured so that any total score above this mark points directly toward time in a state prison. While it’s not an automatic guarantee, it creates a strong legal presumption that the judge is expected to follow.
This is why challenging every point is so vital. From the severity level of the primary offense to the points added for prior convictions, each element must be accurate. A mistake in any of these areas could unfairly push you over the 44-point line, triggering a mandatory prison sentence that might have otherwise been avoided.
Prison Time vs. Probation
The difference between scoring 44 points or less and scoring more than 44 points is often the difference between probation and prison. If your total score is 44 or under, the judge has the legal discretion to sentence you to non-state prison sanctions. This could include probation, community control (house arrest), or time in a county jail. The court has options.
However, once your score exceeds 44, the guidelines generally require the judge to impose a prison sentence. While there are exceptions, the default sentence is prison. This makes it crucial to have a legal team like the one at Galanter Law that can meticulously review your scoresheet and argue for any possible downward departures if you are facing a high score.
How to Calculate a Minimum Prison Sentence
When your total points are over 44, the court uses a specific formula to determine the lowest possible prison sentence it can impose under the guidelines. It’s a straightforward calculation that provides a clear baseline for your sentence.
Here’s how it works:
- Take your total scoresheet points.
- Subtract 28 from that total.
- Multiply the remaining number by 0.75.
The result is the minimum number of months you must be sentenced to in state prison. For example, if your total score is 60 points, the calculation would be (60 – 28) x 0.75, which equals 24. In this scenario, the lowest permissible sentence would be 24 months. Seeing these numbers highlights how an effective legal strategy can lead to better case results.
Can a Judge Go Against the Guidelines?
Yes, a judge in Florida can sentence someone to more or less time than the guidelines suggest, but they can’t do it without a solid legal reason. Think of the sentencing guidelines as a starting point, not a rigid rulebook. When a judge decides to issue a sentence outside of this recommended range, it’s known as a “departure.” This is a critical moment in the legal process where the specific details of your case and your personal history truly matter.
A judge might issue a lighter sentence, called a “downward departure,” if there are compelling reasons that lessen your responsibility. On the other hand, they could impose a harsher sentence, or an “upward departure,” if certain aggravating factors make the offense seem more serious. In either situation, the judge must state their reasons on the record, and those reasons must be legally valid. This isn’t about a judge’s personal feelings; it’s about applying specific legal principles to the facts of the case. This is why having a strong legal advocate who can effectively argue these points is so important for your criminal defense. An experienced attorney understands how to present these factors to the court in the most persuasive way.
Reasons for a Lighter Sentence (Downward Departure)
A downward departure happens when a judge gives a sentence that is less severe than the minimum recommended by the sentencing scoresheet. This is only possible if specific mitigating circumstances exist. Think of these as reasons that lessen your culpability or suggest a lighter sentence would be more just.
For example, a judge might consider a downward departure if you played a very minor role in the offense, were pressured into it, or have a mental health condition that contributed to your actions. Other powerful factors include showing genuine remorse, cooperating with law enforcement, or actively seeking help for issues like substance abuse. A clean criminal record and accepting responsibility for what you did can also persuade a judge to grant a more lenient sentence.
Reasons for a Harsher Sentence (Upward Departure)
Just as a judge can go lower, they can also go higher than the recommended sentence. This is called an upward departure, and it’s based on what the court considers “aggravating factors.” These are facts or circumstances that make the crime more serious. The prosecution will highlight these factors to argue for a tougher penalty.
Common reasons for a harsher sentence include having a long history of prior offenses, using a weapon during the crime, or causing someone serious injury. The court also looks at the context of the offense. For instance, committing a crime in front of a child or specifically targeting a vulnerable person, like someone who is elderly or disabled, can lead a judge to impose a sentence above the guideline range.
Understanding a Judge’s Discretion
While the point system creates a mathematical starting point, the final sentence isn’t decided by a calculator. Judges have a degree of discretion, but it’s limited by law. They must justify any departure from the guidelines with clear and convincing evidence, creating a formal record of their reasoning. This ensures the process is fair and not arbitrary.
This is where the skill of your attorney becomes essential. An experienced lawyer can investigate your case for mitigating factors the court should consider and present them in a compelling way. They can also challenge the prosecution’s arguments for an upward departure. Effectively presenting your story and legal arguments can make a significant difference in the judge’s final decision and the outcome of your case.
What Is Florida’s 85% Rule?
When you hear about a prison sentence in Florida, the number of years given by the judge isn’t the full story. The state has a strict policy known as the “85% Rule,” which dictates the minimum amount of time a person must spend behind bars. This rule was put in place to make sure that individuals convicted of crimes serve a substantial part of their court-ordered sentence. Understanding this rule is crucial because it directly impacts when you or a loved one might be eligible for release. While it sets a firm floor for time served, it doesn’t eliminate the possibility of getting out a bit earlier. The system allows for a small reduction in the total sentence through good behavior, a concept called “gain time.”
Serving Your Mandatory Minimum
The 85% rule is straightforward: if you are convicted of a crime in Florida, you are required to serve at least 85% of your prison sentence before you can be released. For example, if you receive a 10-year sentence, you must serve a minimum of 8.5 years. This law is one reason why Florida has a reputation for some of the nation’s harshest penalties. There is no way around this mandatory minimum. It applies across the board and ensures that a significant portion of every sentence is served in custody, regardless of other factors.
Earning “Gain Time” for Good Behavior
While the 85% rule is non-negotiable, Florida law does offer a way to shorten the total time served through “gain time.” This is essentially a credit awarded to inmates for good behavior, such as following the rules and participating in programs. Think of it as an incentive to maintain a positive record while incarcerated. However, it’s important to know that gain time only applies to the remaining 15% of your sentence. It cannot reduce your time served below the 85% threshold. The state’s sentencing guidelines outline how these credits can be earned and applied.
How This Rule Affects Your Release Date
So, how do these two concepts work together? The 85% rule sets your earliest possible release date, and gain time determines your final release date. If you earn the maximum gain time available, you could be released after serving exactly 85% of your sentence. If you don’t earn any gain time due to disciplinary issues, you could end up serving 100% of your sentence. This makes your conduct while incarcerated incredibly important. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand how these rules apply to your specific case from the very beginning.
Which Crimes Use the Sentencing Guidelines?
Florida’s sentencing guidelines are the main framework for determining penalties, but they don’t apply to every single case. The Criminal Punishment Code and its point system are specifically designed for felony offenses. So, if you’re facing a misdemeanor, a non-criminal traffic ticket, or a municipal ordinance violation, your case will be handled outside of this point-based structure. The guidelines were created to bring consistency to felony sentencing across the state, ensuring that penalties are applied more uniformly from one courtroom to another. Before they existed, sentencing could vary wildly depending on the judge.
This system is meant to make things more predictable, but it’s far from simple. Even within the world of felonies, there are important exceptions and rules that can dramatically change an outcome. For example, certain crimes come with mandatory minimum sentences that completely override the point system. Understanding which crimes use the guidelines and which ones follow different rules is a critical first step in preparing your defense. It’s not something you should try to figure out on your own. An experienced attorney can analyze the specifics of your case, determine exactly how your charges will be scored, and explain what that means for your future.
Felony Levels and Their Point Values
In Florida, every felony is assigned a level from 1 to 10, with Level 1 being the least severe and Level 10 being the most serious. Each level has a corresponding point value that serves as the starting point for your scoresheet calculation. The higher the level, the more points are assigned to the offense. For example, a Level 1 felony like petit theft with prior convictions is worth four points. A Level 5 felony, such as grand theft of over $10,000, carries 28 points. At the upper end, a Level 10 offense like first-degree murder is assigned 116 points, reflecting its extreme severity.
Mandatory Minimums vs. Guideline Sentences
Some of the most serious criminal defense cases involve mandatory minimum sentences. These are specific prison terms required by law for certain offenses, and they override the standard point calculation. For instance, crimes involving firearms, drug trafficking, or certain violent acts often come with mandatory minimums. This means that even if your scoresheet total is below the 44-point threshold for prison, a judge must impose the legally required sentence. It’s a critical factor to consider, as these laws remove a judge’s discretion and can lead to significant prison time regardless of other mitigating factors in your case.
Offenses That Don’t Use the Guidelines
The sentencing guidelines apply to felonies committed after October 1, 1998, when the current Criminal Punishment Code was established. Offenses that fall outside this system include all misdemeanors and most traffic offenses, which have their own separate sentencing laws and penalties. Before the guidelines were first introduced in the 1980s, Florida used an indeterminate sentencing system that gave judges much broader discretion. The modern point system was designed to create more predictable and consistent outcomes, but it’s essential to remember that it is a tool specifically for felony cases.
How Do Prior Convictions Affect Your Score?
Your criminal history is one of the most significant factors on your sentencing scoresheet. The prosecution will carefully review your past to add points for any prior convictions, which can dramatically increase your total score and potential sentence. It’s not just about whether you have a record; the type of offense, where it occurred, and even how long ago it happened all play a role. Understanding how these elements are weighed is a critical step in preparing your defense.
Adding Points for Past Felonies
Any prior conviction, whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, will add points to your scoresheet. The more serious the past offense, the more points you can expect. For example, if you have a history of very serious felonies, the court adds 30 points. If you have a prior capital felony, which is the most severe type of crime, the points for your current primary offense are doubled. This system is designed to assign harsher penalties to repeat offenders. An experienced criminal defense attorney can scrutinize your scoresheet to ensure that past offenses are scored correctly and that no errors are inflating your total.
How Out-of-State Convictions Are Treated
A common question is whether a conviction from another state will follow you to Florida. The answer is yes. Out-of-state convictions are considered in the scoring process and can contribute to your total points. The court will look at the out-of-state offense and compare it to an equivalent crime under Florida law to determine how many points to add. This process can be complicated, as laws differ from state to state. It is essential to have a legal expert review how these convictions are classified on your scoresheet, as an incorrect classification could lead to a much higher score and a more severe sentence.
Do Old Convictions Expire?
In Florida, your criminal history has a long memory. Old convictions do not expire; they remain a permanent part of your record and can affect your sentencing score indefinitely. A conviction from 10, 20, or even 30 years ago can still be used to add points to your scoresheet for a new offense. While you can’t erase the past, a skilled attorney can present mitigating circumstances to the judge. They can build a case that highlights your positive life changes since that old conviction, arguing that it shouldn’t weigh as heavily in your current situation. You can see how our firm has handled complex cases by reviewing our past results.
Common Myths About Florida Sentencing
When you’re facing criminal charges, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by misinformation. The Florida sentencing process is complex, and many common beliefs about it are simply not true. Understanding the reality behind these myths is the first step toward building a strong defense strategy. Let’s clear up a few of the most persistent misconceptions so you know what to expect.
Having a clear picture of the process can help you feel more in control. It also highlights why having skilled legal representation is so important. An attorney can explain how the law applies to your specific situation, cutting through the noise and focusing on what truly matters for your case.
Myth: The Guidelines Are Mandatory
One of the biggest misunderstandings is that the sentencing guidelines are rigid rules that judges must follow without exception. In reality, they are more like a strong suggestion. While the scoresheet provides a starting point, judges have the authority to issue a different sentence if the circumstances of the case warrant it.
This is known as judicial discretion. A judge can impose a sentence that deviates from the guidelines based on specific details presented by the prosecution or your criminal defense team. Factors like your background, the nature of the offense, and other mitigating evidence can all influence the final outcome. The guidelines are influential, but they are not the final word.
Myth: First-Time Offenders Always Get Probation
Many people assume that a clean record automatically leads to probation instead of jail time. While being a first-time offender is certainly a positive factor, it doesn’t guarantee you’ll avoid a harsher sentence. The decision ultimately depends on the severity of the crime and the specific facts of your case.
For example, a first-time offender charged with a serious felony is far less likely to receive probation than someone charged with a minor, non-violent offense. Judges can choose other options besides prison, especially if there are compelling reasons for a lighter sentence, but it’s never automatic. Your attorney’s ability to present your case effectively plays a huge role in the judge’s decision.
Myth: Sentencing Is Always Applied the Same Way
The goal of the guidelines is to create consistency, but that doesn’t mean every case is treated identically. The point system can sometimes result in sentences that seem overly harsh for certain offenses, especially if you have a prior record. Each case is unique, and a judge will consider many different factors before making a final ruling.
Because the system isn’t a simple plug-and-play formula, the story behind your situation matters. An experienced attorney like Yale Galanter can highlight the unique aspects of your case that a scoresheet can’t capture. This personalized approach is critical for arguing for a fair and just sentence that truly fits the circumstances.
Key Sentencing Terms You Should Know
When you’re going through the legal system, you’ll hear a lot of terms that can sound confusing. Understanding what they mean is the first step toward feeling more in control of your situation. Let’s break down a few of the most important phrases you’ll encounter during the sentencing phase of a criminal defense case. Knowing this vocabulary will help you follow along and have more productive conversations with your attorney about your strategy.
What Is a Scoresheet?
Think of a scoresheet as the official worksheet used to calculate a recommended sentence in a Florida felony case. It’s a critical tool that directly impacts the outcome. The state attorney prepares the scoresheet, tallying up points based on the primary offense, your criminal history, and other factors. Your defense lawyer’s job is to then review it meticulously for any errors or inaccuracies, as even a small miscalculation can have a huge impact. Before the sentence is final, the judge must review, approve, and sign this scoresheet, making it a cornerstone of the sentencing process.
Mitigating vs. Aggravating Factors
These are the circumstances surrounding your case that can either help you or hurt you at sentencing. Mitigating factors are reasons a judge might give you a lighter sentence. This could include playing a minor role in the offense, showing genuine remorse, having no prior criminal record, or seeking help for an underlying issue like substance abuse. On the other hand, aggravating factors are details that could lead to a harsher sentence, like using a weapon, having a long criminal history, or harming a vulnerable person. A skilled attorney will work to highlight your mitigating factors while challenging the prosecution’s aggravating claims.
What Does “Downward Departure” Mean?
“Downward departure” is a legal term for when a judge issues a sentence that is less severe than what the scoresheet recommends. Even if your point total is 44 or more, which often means mandatory prison time, a downward departure can help you avoid it. This isn’t automatic. Your attorney must present a compelling legal argument based on those mitigating factors we just discussed. Securing a downward departure requires a deep understanding of the law and persuasive advocacy to convince the judge that a more lenient sentence is justified. It’s one of the most important ways an experienced lawyer can achieve a more favorable outcome.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help at Sentencing
The sentencing phase is one of the most critical moments in any criminal case. It’s not just about a judge handing down a decision; it’s a crucial opportunity to present your side of the story and argue for the best possible outcome. This is where having an experienced attorney becomes invaluable. A skilled lawyer doesn’t just show up for the final hearing. They actively work to influence the outcome by scrutinizing the details, presenting compelling arguments, and ensuring the entire process is fair. Their goal is to work within the complexities of the sentencing guidelines to secure a result that protects your future. An attorney’s work at this stage can make a significant difference, potentially reducing prison time or avoiding it altogether by highlighting mitigating factors and challenging the prosecution’s case every step of the way.
Challenge Your Point Calculations
One of the first things a criminal defense attorney does is carefully review the sentencing scoresheet prepared by the state. This document is not always perfect, and errors in point calculations can lead to a much harsher sentence than necessary. Your lawyer will examine every detail, looking for inaccuracies or weaknesses in the evidence used against you. For example, an attorney can challenge weak or illegally obtained evidence to get charges dropped or reduced, which directly impacts your point total. By ensuring the scoresheet is accurate and reflects the true nature of the case, your attorney works to lower your points and position you for a more favorable sentence. This meticulous review is a fundamental part of a strong defense strategy.
Argue for a More Lenient Sentence
Even if the points on your scoresheet add up to a prison sentence, there is still room for advocacy. A defense attorney can argue for a “downward departure,” which is a formal request for a sentence below the recommended guidelines. To do this, they must present compelling mitigating factors to the judge. These might include your character, lack of a significant criminal history, or specific circumstances surrounding the offense. As legal experts note, “A judge can give a lighter sentence (called a ‘downward departure’) if there are good reasons.” This is where your attorney’s ability to tell your story effectively can persuade a judge to show leniency and impose a more just penalty that considers you as a whole person, not just a case number.
Protect Your Rights in Court
Throughout the sentencing process, your attorney’s primary role is to protect your rights. They ensure that all legal procedures are followed correctly and that your case is presented fairly. The legal system has specific rules, and judges have a certain amount of discretion. According to legal analysis, “Judges can sometimes give a lighter or harsher sentence than the guidelines suggest if certain rules are met.” An experienced criminal defense lawyer understands these rules inside and out. They can object to improper arguments from the prosecution and make sure the judge considers all relevant information before making a final decision. This advocacy gives you the strongest possible defense when it matters most, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sentence recommended by the scoresheet final? Not at all. Think of the scoresheet calculation as a starting point or a strong suggestion for the judge. While the point total creates a recommended sentence, a judge has the authority to issue a different one if there are compelling legal reasons. This is where your attorney’s arguments about the unique circumstances of your case, known as mitigating factors, can persuade a judge to impose a more lenient sentence.
Will a conviction from a long time ago still affect my sentence? Yes, in Florida, your criminal history doesn’t have an expiration date. Any prior conviction, no matter how old, can be used to add points to your sentencing scoresheet. However, this doesn’t mean an old mistake has to define your future. A skilled attorney can present the full context of your life since that conviction, highlighting your positive contributions and changes to argue that it shouldn’t carry as much weight in your current case.
If I’m sentenced to prison, will I have to serve the entire time? Florida has a law known as the “85% Rule,” which requires you to serve at least 85% of your prison sentence. There is no way around this mandatory minimum. However, you can earn credits for good behavior, called “gain time,” which can reduce the remaining 15% of your sentence. This means your conduct while incarcerated directly impacts your final release date.
What can my attorney actually do about my point total? An experienced attorney plays a critical role in two key ways. First, they will meticulously review the scoresheet prepared by the prosecution to find any errors, as mistakes in calculating your criminal history or the offense severity can unfairly inflate your score. Second, even if the score is high, your lawyer can build a persuasive case for a “downward departure,” presenting evidence and arguments to convince the judge that a sentence below the guidelines is more appropriate for your situation.
Do these guidelines apply to all crimes in Florida? No, the point-based sentencing guidelines are specifically for felony offenses. If you are facing a misdemeanor or a typical traffic violation, your case will be handled under a different set of sentencing laws that do not use the Criminal Punishment Code scoresheet. It’s also important to know that certain serious felonies come with mandatory minimum sentences required by law, which can override the scoresheet calculation.
