What Sentences are Available?

The main groups of sentences and penalties available are:

Custodial sentences

• Life imprisonment
• Preventative detention
• Imprisonment for a fixed term

Detention sentences

• Home Detention
• Community Detention

Community-based sentences

• Community work
• Supervision
• Intensive Supervision

Monetary penalties

• Fines
• Reparation

Minimal outcomes

• Deferred Sentence
• Discharge without conviction
• Conviction and discharge

Other penalties

• Disqualification from driving
• Confiscation of vehicle or other property

The most common sentence is monetary - either fines or reparation or both. Almost half of all defendants are given monetary sentences. Approximately a quarter are given community work. Only 10% of charges will result in a custodial sentence.

Custodial sentences

• Life imprisonment
• Preventative detention
• Imprisonment for a fixed term

Detention sentences

• Home Detention
• Community Detention

Community-based sentences

• Community work
• SupervisionIntensive Supervision

Monetary penalties

• Fines
• Reparation

Minimal outcomes

• Deferred Sentence
• Discharge without conviction
• Conviction and discharge

Other penalties

• Disqualification from driving
• Confiscation of vehicle or other property

The most common sentence is monetary - either fines or reparation or both. Almost half of all defendants are given monetary sentences. Approximately a quarter are given community work. Only 10% of charges will result in a custodial sentence.

More Information:

Courts of New Zealand