1️⃣ Case Documentation
- Charge sheets / complaint: formal description of alleged crime
- Summons / court notices: proof of proper legal procedure
- Pre-trial motions: any motions filed or responses
2️⃣ Evidence
- Physical evidence: weapons, clothing, property, damaged items
- Photos / video recordings: crime scene, injuries, relevant events
- Audio recordings: phone calls, conversations, verified recordings
- Digital evidence: emails, text messages, social media posts, app data
- Medical records: doctor’s reports, hospital notes
- Specialist / forensic reports: accident reconstruction, DNA analysis
3️⃣ Witness Statements
- Eyewitness statements
- Expert witnesses: doctors, psychologists, forensic specialists
- Character witnesses: attest to the behavior, history, or personality of involved parties
- Contact information and affidavits: for verification
4️⃣ Expert Reports
- Psychological evaluations: trauma, mental health, risk assessment
- Medical evaluations: injuries, long-term impact, disability reports
- Specialized assessments: financial audits, technical analysis, accident reconstruction
5️⃣ Criminal / Police Records
- Police reports: incident, investigation, or arrest records
- Previous convictions: criminal history relevant to sentencing
- Witness interviews by police
- Evidence logs: chain of custody, proper handling of evidence
6️⃣ Legal Considerations
- Statutory sentencing guidelines
- Mandatory minimums or maximums
- Aggravating factors: violence, repeat offenses, victim vulnerability
- Mitigating factors: first-time offense, remorse, cooperation, mental health issues
7️⃣ Victim Impact
- Victim impact statements: physical, emotional, financial consequences
- Restitution claims: documented financial loss or damages
8️⃣ Offender Background
- Criminal record: prior offenses, probation history
- Personal circumstances: age, education, employment, family situation
- Psychosocial factors: history of trauma, mental health diagnoses, substance abuse
9️⃣ Courtroom Behavior
- Credibility of testimony: consistency, clarity, demeanor
- Behavior in court: respectful, cooperative, threatening, or disruptive
- Compliance with court orders
10️⃣ Pre-Sentencing Reports / Recommendations
- Probation officer reports: assessment of risk, rehabilitation potential
- Sentencing recommendations: from prosecution, defense, and sometimes probation
✅ Summary
A judge considers every angle:
- Facts & evidence ✅
- Witness credibility ✅
- Offender history ✅
- Victim impact ✅
- Legal guidelines & statutory requirements ✅
- Expert evaluations ✅
- Courtroom behavior & compliance ✅
The judge’s goal is to balance justice, fairness, public safety, and rehabilitation.