What is the purpose of a pre-sentence investigation?

The purpose of a pre-sentence investigation is to assist the judge in determining an appropriate sentence for a defendant following a conviction. This investigation provides a comprehensive evaluation that includes various aspects of the defendant's background, such as their criminal history, personal circumstances, and any mitigating or aggravating factors that may be relevant to sentencing. By delivering insights into the individual's life, the report helps the judge understand the context of the crime and the defendant's potential for rehabilitation, which are critical components in making an informed sentencing decision.

While determining guilt involves examining the evidence presented during the trial, and assessing the legal merits pertains to the pre-trial or trial phase, the pre-sentence investigation specifically focuses on the individual after a conviction to ensure that the sentence imposed aligns with both justice and rehabilitation goals.