What to expect for sentencing at court on Friday?

[Ladieunlucky]

Im being sentenced this Friday at crown court. I was charged for fraud under false representation due to a manic episode where I stole money from employers. I have bi polar disorder and was un medicated at the time. I handed myself in when I realised what I did and I have lost all my friends and reputation, butonly what I deserve. This charge is because I was in a position of trust. I have seen a psychiatrist for pre sentencing report.

I’ve been advised the sentencing guidelines start at 3 years, reduced by a 3rd because of my early guilty plea and co operation. Mitigating factors are I have not offended before, early plea and co operation, previous good character, have a 15 year old who I have joint custody with. And also my mental illness.

I am prepared for a custodial sentence and just wondered what I can expect on the day in court, how long it takes as no there is no trial. And what to pack in my bag to bring to prison?

I understand this may be my fate and what I deserve and have never once said I’m not guilty. Please just kind comments as this time is very difficult x

I’m also hoping you get a suspended sentence, OP.

I remember when my then-partner’s bipolar colleague had a manic episode. It was obvious that she wasn’t in her right mind and shouldn’t have been at work. A day or two later, she was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. I’m surprised that you were prosecuted if you were in a similar situation at the time. I hope your psychiatric report persuades the judge that prison would not be appropriate in your case.

Whatever happens on Friday, I hope you’re soon able to put this behind you and start afresh.

The other threads weren't about imminent sentencing though, were they? What is wrong with you that you barge onto a thread where the OP is so worried? Horrible. I hope you don't reap the same lack of empathy when you are at your lowest point.

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OP, I read your previous threads. Really hoping for a suspended sentence for you and as PP mentioned, some help for rehabilitation and starting again. Best wishes to you.

I'm hoping you get a suspended sentence

This podcast may be informative... most episodes are about men's prison but this one is about women's and fortunately it does sound far better:

I'm listening to Banged Up | 15. Women's prison: Laura's story on Podbean, check it out! https://www.podbean.com/ea/dir-canvr-19a36330

Wishing you the best of luck for Friday

Thoughts are with you OP. I join others in hoping that you get a suspended sentence. I can't see how a custodial sentence would be justified here given the mitigating factors. If they gave Huw Edwards a suspended sentence then to do otherwise here would be perverse and unfair.

Another one hoping you receive a suspended sentence.

Not much advice for you OP, but I think you've been given some excellent advice by pp, I echo photographs and cosy clothes.

Sending you prayers and love, I've read your previous posts and you do not deserve a custodial sentence. I hope to see you back here on Friday, and that you get suspended sentence. Best of luck

Thank you everyone! Any advice on coping with being away from loved ones?

No advice, but sending you all the best thoughts x

If they are open to it, get into a routine with regular phone calls and visits. Bring photos with you, presuming you're allowed.

Remember this is a temporary period that will pass.

I really really hope they suspend your sentence OP. I have followed your threads and to me that would be the correct action.

I hope you get a suspended sentence OP, wishing you all the luck for Friday. As others have said, this will pass. You will be on the other side of this one way or another, and you’ll look back and it will feel so different.

Will be thinking of you.

Hoping any sentence will be suspended. You don’t deserve prison

You'll ... not your

Good luck OP. Hope to see you back here after Friday, most of all for the sake of your 15 year old.

Wishing you the best for Friday, OP

Good luck. I really hope the lack of prison places helps non-violent people like you to have a chance to make amends without going to prison. Rooting for you x

Been following your posts OP. You don't deserve prison, you've had a rotten time.

Sending positive thoughts, a big hug and best wishes.

I really can't imagine anything but a suspended sentence and will be checking the thread on Friday for an update xx

Think it's important in court that you are very clear that you are medicated now and understand the necessity to keep on your meds. As you know it's everything with bipolar and will save you going through all this turmoil again.
Hopefully they will understand the impact of your illness and be merciful with the sentence.
Mind yourself whatever happens.

I’m wishing you all the best for Friday too. I hope you’ll have comfort and support with you.

I am also wishing you the best possible outcome on Friday.

Savour every moment now, and we will be here to welcome you home.

Good luck OP. Hoping to hear from you on Friday

All the best op.
I really hope you don't go to prison.
I think I would write some phone numbers down to take just in case so you have them when needed.

Wishing you well for Friday I really hope you don't get a custodial. Will be thinking of you and hope to hear some good news on Friday.💐♥️

Have you got family to care for your teen and your dog? People who have done far worse than you have gotten suspended sentences so I will keep
my fingers crossed for you