What do statutory guidelines provide in relation to sentencing?

Statutory guidelines are designed to offer a structured framework within which judges operate when determining sentences. They provide a set of parameters that help ensure consistency and fairness in sentencing by outlining recommended ranges or conditions for various types of offenses. By establishing these guidelines, the law aims to balance judicial discretion with predictability in sentencing outcomes, ensuring that similar cases receive similar treatment.

While judges do have discretionary power to a certain extent in how they apply these guidelines, this discretion is exercised within the context of the broader framework provided by statutory guidelines. Mandatory sentences are not applicable in all cases, as many offenses allow judges to consider specific circumstances. Definitions of all crimes are typically found in criminal statutes, not within sentencing guidelines.