Legal Definitions - sentence-package rule

The sentence-package rule is a principle in criminal procedure that allows a defendant to be resentenced on an aggregate sentence. This means that if a defendant is convicted on multiple counts in an indictment and successfully challenges part of the conviction, they can be resentenced for the entire sentence.

For example, if a defendant is convicted of robbery and assault and receives a sentence of 10 years for both crimes combined, but successfully appeals the assault conviction, they can be resentenced for the entire 10-year sentence.

The sentence-package rule ensures that a defendant is not unfairly punished for a conviction that has been successfully challenged. It also helps to maintain consistency in sentencing by ensuring that the entire sentence is reviewed and adjusted if necessary.