Criminal Defense

Does Showing Remorse for a Crime Help Reduce Penalties?

May 05, 2022 by Alexandra Carter in Criminal Defense  
Thumbnail for: Does Showing Remorse for a Crime Help Reduce Penalties?

It’s Never Too Late..

“Is it too late now to say sorry?” If you’ve been accused of or charged with a crime, you may be wondering if displaying remorse for your actions will help you get a lighter sentence.

In fact, it can. 

Research studies have confirmed that a defendant’s failure to show remorse is one of the most powerful factors in criminal sentencing. Research from 2006 found that judges often enhanced the sentences of defendants they felt exhibited a lack of remorse in the courtroom.

What is Remorse?

Remorse is a “retractive” emotion as someone withdraws from an action or personality trait that belongs to them. The most common thoughts associated with this feeling are, “I wish I had not done that,” or “I wish my personality were different.”

Showing Remorse Appropriately

Of course, accurately evaluating remorse is tricky. And faking remorse or being overly dramatic with it can cause the judge and jury to think of the defendant as phony. So, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • If you choose to apologize, make it a heartfelt apology that’s short and sweet. Don’t be overly dramatic, as that will come off fake.
  • Look the judge, jury, and/or victim in the eye when making your apology.
  • Tie in an antidote that shows what you’ve learned or reflected on during your time of remorse.
  • Never act like you’re “too cool to apologize,” or you simply don’t care about the consequences of your actions. As we mentioned above, if the judge feels you exhibited a lack of remorse, they will likely impose a harsher sentence.
  • Be careful how you word your apology. Judges are more likely to think you are faking your remorse if you say, “sorry for what happened,” versus a statement in which you take accountability for your actions, such as, “I am sorry for what I did.”

You can also send the judge a letter explaining your remorseful feelings before your sentencing or trial starts. Some people find letters are more effective because they can write everything out ahead of time and not have to worry about being nervous and clamming up or the judge rushing them for time’s sake. Of course, you have to be careful because some judges may view a letter as a “cop” out and prefer an in-person apology.

Speak with your criminal defense attorney ahead of time, who may know the judge and what they’d prefer, or who can assess your situation and tell you whether a letter or in-person apology would be best. If you are apologizing directly to a victim or their family, you can also send a letter directly to them or their attorney.

Charged with a Crime?

You need an experienced lawyer to fight for your freedom and your rights.

Need a Criminal Defense Attorney? CALL NOW: 310-274-6529

Seppi Esfandi is an Expert Criminal Defense Attorney who has over 21 years of practice defending a variety of criminal cases.

Contact Us:         
Esfandi Law Group QR Code
Esfandi Law Group
Lara S.
December 3, 2019
5
Seppi had my case reduced to just an infraction, and thanks to him I was able to keep my job. Jorge was extremely helpful too, the reason I went with this law firm. Overall pleased.

How to Win Your Case

We cannot stress enough that you read, understand and follow these 10 basic rules if you are criminally charged or under investigation:

  1. Don’t ever talk to the police
  2. Do not discuss your case with anyone
  3. Everything you tell your lawyer is confidential
  4. Tell police you need to contact your attorney
  5. Never consent to any search by the police
  6. If the police knock on your door, don't answer!
  7. Realize the consequences of a criminal conviction
  8. Your lawyer (not you) will contact any witnesses
  9. Information on your cell phone is evidence
  10. Early Intervention is the key

Get a Free Consultation

    Free Consultation Form