Criminal sentencing is the legal process where a judge determines the punishment for a person convicted of a crime. This process considers various factors, including the severity of the offense, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances. Sentences can range from fines and community service to imprisonment or even capital punishment, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the crime. The goal of criminal sentencing is to achieve justice, deter future crimes, and rehabilitate offenders. Different types of sentences include probation, incarceration, and restorative justice programs, which aim to repair harm caused by the crime while holding the offender accountable.