In most instances, judges will follow these calculations. However Pennsylvania judges can use their discretion and deviate based on mitigating factors.

 There are two instances however when a judge is not allowed to deviate:

  • If an offense has mandatory minimum sentencing and an offender has to serve jail time specified by law.
  • Judges are not allowed to sentence offenders to more jail time than is specified by law.

PA Sentencing Guidelines & Gravity Score