Erin Patterson to Face Victims' Loved Ones in Pre-Sentencing Hearing

Erin Patterson, 50, who was found guilty of triple murder, will attend a two-day plea hearing in person on Monday, marking her first court appearance since the conviction on July 7. The hearing, which will take place in Melbourne, will allow the prosecution and defense to make arguments about mitigating and aggravating factors that should be considered by the judge in determining Patterson's sentence. Victim impact statements and medical or psychological reports may be presented to support either side's arguments.

Key Takeaways:

• Erin Patterson, 50, will attend a two-day plea hearing in person on Monday, marking her first court appearance since being found guilty of triple murder on July 7.
• The plea hearing will provide an opportunity for the prosecution and defense to make arguments about mitigating and aggravating factors that should be considered by the judge in determining Patterson's sentence.
• Victim impact statements are expected to be presented, outlining how the crime has affected the victims or their families.
• Patterson's lawyers may present medical or psychological reports as mitigating factors.
• The judge will consider the arguments and hand down Patterson's sentence at a later date.
• Patterson then has 28 days after sentencing to lodge an appeal.
• The victims of the crime may be eligible for financial compensation, with the Victorian Office of Public Prosecutions stating that the confiscation of Patterson's property would ensure that any family members who applied for compensation could have the property available for any court orders.

Statistics:

• 25 years' imprisonment is the standard sentence for murder in Victoria (Sentencing Advisory Council of Victoria).
• Life imprisonment without parole is the maximum penalty for murder in Victoria (Sentencing Advisory Council of Victoria).
• 33 years was the minimum term imposed on Robert Farquharson, who was convicted of murdering his children in 2007.

Sources:

• Sanders, S. (n.d.). What the mushroom murders trial jury wasn't told - podcast.
• Victorian Office of Public Prosecutions (July 23, 2023). Confiscation application granted to restrain property.
• Sentencing Advisory Council of Victoria. Guide for Judicial Officers (n.d.).