What is the process of imposing a punishment on a convicted individual called?

The process of imposing a punishment on a convicted individual is referred to as sentencing. Sentencing occurs after a conviction has been established in a court of law, and it involves the judge determining the appropriate penalty in line with the severity of the crime and relevant legal guidelines. This can include a variety of outcomes such as fines, community service, probation, or incarceration, depending on the context and jurisdiction.

Sentencing serves multiple purposes, including retribution, deterrence, rehabilitation, and societal protection. It is a critical phase in the criminal justice system because it reflects not only the legal penalties but also the societal values regarding justice and punishment. The specific procedures for sentencing may vary, but they generally follow established laws and guidelines designed to ensure fairness and consistency.

Other options describe related concepts but do not capture the formal legal process of imposing a punishment. For instance, punishment is a broad term that encompasses all forms of penalties but does not specifically refer to the judicial process. Imprisonment is one possible outcome of sentencing but not the entire process itself. Rehabilitation refers to efforts aimed at reforming the offender and preventing future crimes, which can be an aspect of sentencing but does not define the act of imposing a punishment.