What is the purpose of "sentencing" in a criminal case?

The purpose of sentencing in a criminal case is fundamentally to determine the appropriate punishment for a convicted defendant. This process occurs after a defendant has been found guilty, either through a plea or a trial verdict. During sentencing, the court considers various factors, including the severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances that may influence the length and nature of the punishment.

Sentencing is critical because it ensures that justice is served in a measured and fair manner, reflecting society's response to the crime committed. It may involve prison time, fines, community service, probation, or a combination of these penalties, all aimed at rehabilitating the offender and deterring future offenses.

The other options relate to different stages of the judicial process: deciding guilt or innocence occurs during the trial, selecting a jury is a pre-trial procedure, and hearing appeals involves reviewing the decisions made during the trial after sentencing has taken place. Thus, these options are not part of the sentencing phase but are essential components of the overall legal process.