How is sentencing handled after a guilty verdict in Anglo-American legal systems?

In Anglo-American legal systems, sentencing is typically handled through a separate hearing that occurs a few weeks after a defendant has been found guilty. This procedural separation allows for the collection of information regarding the offender's psychological and social background, which is presented to the court to assist in the sentencing decision.1

In most cases, a professional judge determines the sentence after hearing from the defense and, in the United States, the prosecution. While judges generally hold the responsibility for sentencing, there are notable variations:1

• Judicial Discretion and Guidelines: Judges must sentence within limits predetermined by legislation. Many jurisdictions use sentencing guidelines—recommendations created by expert commissions—to provide a range of prison time based on factors like the gravity of the offense and criminal history.23
• Mandatory Sentencing: In some instances, courts are required by law to impose specific penalties, such as mandatory minimum prison terms, regardless of individual circumstances.3
• Jury Involvement: While juries are primarily restricted to determining guilt, in some U.S. states, they may recommend or decide sentences within a legal range. In cases involving capital punishment, juries often play a direct role in deciding whether the death penalty is imposed, sometimes during a separate "second trial" phase.41