What is the primary goal of sentencing in the legal system?

The primary goal of sentencing in the legal system encompasses multiple objectives, which is captured by the choice that includes all of them. Sentencing serves several purposes, and each of these objectives plays a significant role in how justice is delivered.

Rehabilitation focuses on reforming the offender so that they can reintegrate into society as a law-abiding citizen. This reflects the understanding that many offenders may benefit from support and treatment that address underlying issues contributing to their criminal behavior.

Punishment serves the fundamental purpose of holding offenders accountable for their actions. This aspect of sentencing reflects society's condemnation of crime and the need for a penalty that corresponds to the severity of the offense committed.

Deterrence aims to prevent future crimes by discouraging the offender from reoffending and serving as an example to others who might consider engaging in similar behavior. Both general deterrence (aimed at the public) and specific deterrence (targeted at the individual offender) are key components of this objective.

By recognizing that sentencing is not merely about punishment, but a holistic approach that includes rehabilitation and deterrence, the answer that incorporates all these elements is the most comprehensive and accurate representation of the primary goals of sentencing in the legal system. This multifaceted approach reflects an understanding of the