Different factors come into play during the sentencing phase of a homicide case such as whether the sentence should be death or life in prison with no hope of parole. Circumstances that support the death sentence are called:

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Aggravating factors are circumstances that make the crime more heinous or the offender more deserving of a harsh punishment, such as committing the murder for financial gain or premeditation. These factors may be considered in determining whether the death sentence is appropriate. Mitigating factors, on the other hand, are circumstances that reduce the offender's culpability, such as mental illness or acting under duress, and may lead to a lesser sentence. Proof of mental disease may be considered an aggravating or mitigating factor depending on the circumstances, while the degree of conviction refers to the severity of the offense and does not directly affect the sentencing phase.

Different Factors Come into Play During the Sentencing Phase of a Homicide