Pennsylvania law 42 Pa.C.S. 2154.7 mandates the adoption of a risk assessment instrument to assist courts in sentencing decisions for offenders. The instrument helps evaluate the likelihood of reoffending and can influence sentencing guidelines, presentence reports, and eligibility for alternative sentencing programs. The law emphasizes evidence-based assessment tools to promote fair and effective sentencing practices.
It helps courts evaluate the likelihood of reoffending to inform sentencing decisions and determine eligibility for alternative sentencing programs.
Yes, it may be incorporated into sentencing guidelines to assist in determining appropriate sentences based on recidivism risk.
It is used for defendants who plead guilty, nolo contendere, or are found guilty of felonies and misdemeanors, as applicable.
Yes, it is an empirically based worksheet that uses relevant factors to predict the likelihood of reoffending.