Bloomberg Law Sentencing Backlash & Pets Are Still Property
Oct 14, 2025
Former federal judge Paul Grimm shares insights on the public's backlash against the sentencing of an assassin who targeted Justice Brett Kavanaugh. He discusses crucial sentencing factors and the implications of rising threats against judges. Meanwhile, trust and estates attorney Suzanne Thau reveals why pets remain legally classified as property and explores a landmark case allowing emotional damages for pet loss. She explains pet custody in divorce situations and advocates for legislative changes like pet custodial accounts to ensure proper care.
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How Federal Sentencing Is Structured
- Federal judges must follow a detailed, multi-step process under 18 U.S. Code §3553 when sentencing defendants.
- Judges explain guideline calculations, resolve disputes, and weigh factors to justify any variance from guidelines.
Balancing Goals When Choosing A Sentence
- Sentencing requires balancing offense seriousness, deterrence, and defendant history to craft a sentence that is sufficient but not greater than necessary.
- Judges may include rehabilitation needs like treatment programs when weighing the sentence.
Expect Appeals To Attack Sentencing Rationale
- Appellate courts review sentences for procedural errors and substantive abuse of discretion.
- Expect appeals to focus on whether a judge overvalued some factors or failed to address others adequately.