Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: Florida's Criminal Punishment Code is a structured sentencing system that uses a point-based scoresheet to calculate the minimum sentence for felony offenses. Points are assigned based on the severity of the offense, prior record, and other factors.
Category: Sentencing · Statute: F.S. 921.002 · Source: Florida Legislature
How the Scoresheet Works
- Points are assigned for the primary offense
- Additional points for prior record (past convictions)
- Points for victim injury
- Other factors: legal status (on probation at time of offense), gang involvement, etc.
- Total points determine the lowest permissible sentence
If Total Points Are Under 44
If the scoresheet total is under 44 points, the court may impose any sentence up to the statutory maximum, including non-prison sanctions like probation. This is significant because it means many first-time felony offenders are eligible for probation rather than prison.
Departures
Judges can depart from the scoresheet guidelines (sentence below the minimum) for specific legal reasons, such as the defendant's cooperation, minor role in the offense, or legitimate uncoerced guilty plea.