Mitigating Factors
/ˈmɪtɪˌɡeɪtɪŋ ˈfæktərz/
Definitions
- (n.) Circumstances or information that lessen the severity or culpability of a wrongful act, potentially reducing penalties or sentences.
The defendant's lack of prior offenses was considered a mitigating factor during sentencing.
Forms
- mitigating factor
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Mitigating factors are crucial in criminal and civil sentencing to ensure proportionality of punishment and can influence judicial discretion.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.