State of Utah Juvenile Sentencing Guidelines’ Aggravating Factors

The state of Utah has a list of juvenile sentencing guidelines that may be followed by a juvenile court judge, although there is no requirement that he do so. The sentencing guidelines do not mean that a juvenile should have specific expectations of how his case will be handled.

In conjunction with the guidelines is a list of aggravating factors that may be taken into account when a juvenile court judge imposes a juvenile’s sentence.

Aggravating Factors

The impact of the offense on the victim and the community

• When there is a distinct showing of callousness and cruelty on the part of the offender
• Substantial monetary loss
• Significant physical or psychological injury to victim
• Previous offense against same victim
• Knowledge of victim’s vulnerability

Previous Violent Delinquent Conduct

• Prior history of violent, delinquent conduct

Substantial Juvenile Court History

• Multiple adjudications for same or similar offense
• Large number of previous offenses
• Court has decided juvenile is delinquent

Need for Outside Treatment

• Juvenile requires treatment that cannot be offered on an in-home basis

Requirement for Secure Confinement

• Juvenile presents a danger to the community requiring a secure placement

Lack of Remorse

• Juvenile shows complete lack of remorse, acceptance or responsibility for offense

Supervision to Monitor Restitution

• Extra supervision time is required to keep track of the juvenile’s restitution responsibilities

Lack of Adherence to Lesser Consequences

• Juvenile doesn’t comply with probation; is in contempt of court, etc.

Doesn’t Attend or Participate in School or other Programs

Involved in a Gang

Juvenile court experiences can be confusing enough without trying to understand the ins and outs of sentencing guidelines. If you have a child involved in the juvenile court system, it would be prudent to contact a Utah juvenile defense attorney who has a reputation for helping kids who are in tight spots.

Do yourself and your child a favor; contact an attorney today.