ABSTRACT Whether it is erroneous advice given to a client by his/her attorney that leads to an unjust sentence or a sentencing error by the appointed judge, erroneous sentencing is and should be a major concern for our citizens and our justice system. Countless cases have been documented showing judges imposing sentences in excess of the maximum penalty allowed or clients receiving longer and harsher sentences due to negligence in advisement by counsel. Not only does this type of sentencing put a strain on an already strained legal system but it creates a new level of mistrust, fear, and discontentment for the people the system is meant to serve. Lives are put in jeopardy and the criminal justice system is compromised. This paper will examine the many effects that erroneous sentencing has on our judicial system itself, the clients, the families, and the community. It will also discuss the counsels and courts responsibility in properly advising clients and making appropriate rulings on cases in order to balance the scales of justice in our court system. ________________________________________________ Paper will be turned in for final grade. This paper will be submitted to a plagarism website by instructor so please, no copying information and if you do, keep it at a minimum and please reference it. I need several sources for references, only 2 can be internet/web based. Please use references such as journals, books, newpapers or news broadcast. This is a graduate level course, please keep that in mind.