Legal Question in Business Law in West Virginia

Go to jail later than sentenced

Why is it when some one with much money, such as Martha Stewart or now this WorlCom guy, Scott Sullivan can ''report'' to jail and not have to go right at sentencing.

I see this a lot when it comes to rich people. It just does not seem fair.

I am just curious why this happens and is allowed.

Thanks. Any input appreciated.


Asked on 8/11/05, 1:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Thomas Zimmerman Zimmerman Law Office

Re: Go to jail later than sentenced

Delay in the execution of the sentence is called the granting of a stay by the court. It is common and usual when the defendant files his motion for an appeal. It is less common when the defendant asks for time to put his or her affairs in order. Usually, in the absence of an appeal, the sentence is imposed immediately. Of course, there are great differences among the states and among jurists within each state. The Federal System has its own set of rules.

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Answered on 8/11/05, 5:30 pm


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