If the accused is convicted of the crime, the magistrate or judge will then sentence them.

The magistrate or judge will ask if the accused has any criminal record (antecedents). If so, the prosecutor will give them to the court.

The magistrate or judge will then ask the defence lawyer if they wish to say anything to lessen (mitigate) the penalty that may be given. The defence may call other evidence or hand references or reports to the court.

The sentencing process may take place straight after the verdict or can be adjourned to another date for a sentencing hearing. Sometimes the process will take place over a number of different dates.