Sentencing Reform Act of 1979

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Sentencing Reform Act of 1979 - Directs the Judicial Conference of the United States to: (1) analyze on a continuing basis data on the sentences imposed by Federal courts in criminal cases, the nature and circumstances of the offenses, and the history and characteristics of the defendants; (2) develop advisory sentencing guidelines for Federal judges to use in imposing sentences; (3) make available at least annually to Federal courts and other persons such guidelines and information concerning patterns and practices in the sentencing of persons convicted of Federal offenses; (4) evaluate the impact of such guidelines on prosecutorial discretion, plea bargaining, and unwarranted sentencing disparities; and (5) report annually to Congress on such activities, including legislative recommendations. Specifies factors which a court must consider in determining a particular sentence, including: (1) effective alternatives to imprisonment; and (2) any applicable advisory sentencing guidelines. Allows a defendant to commence proceedings for an appeal of a sentence by filing a petition with the court of appeals which contains a statement showing a substantial basis for determining that such s…