| A | B |
|---|
| Presentence Report | A probation officer’s written report that gives the sentencing judge information about the defendant’s background and prospects for rehabilitation. |
| Retribution | Punishment given as a kind of revenge for wrongdoing. |
| Deterrence | Measures taken to discourage criminal actions; usually some form of punishment. It is the belief that punishment will discourage the offender from committing future crimes and will serve as an example to keep others from committing crimes. |
| Rehabilitation | The process through which a convicted person is changed or reformed, in order to lead a productive life rather than commit another crime. |
| Incapacitation | A reason for criminal punishment that stresses keeping a convicted person confined to protect society. |
| Parole | Release from prison before the full sentence has been served, granted at the discretion of a parole board. |
| Capital Punishment | The death penalty; putting a convicted person to death as punishment for a crime. |
| Aggravating Circumstances | Factors that tend to increase the seriousness of an offense. The presence of such circumstances must be considered by the judge and jury. |
| Mitigating Circumstances | Factors that tend to lessen the seriousness of an offense. The presence of these factors must be considered by the judge or jury. |
