(1) The lowest permissible sentence provided by calculations from the total sentence points pursuant to s. 921.0024(2) is assumed to be the lowest appropriate sentence for the offender being sentenced. A departure sentence is prohibited unless there are mitigating circumstances or factors present as provided in s. 921.0026 which reasonably justify a departure.
(2) A sentence that decreases an offender’s sentence below the lowest permissible sentence is a departure sentence and must be accompanied by a written statement by the sentencing court delineating the reasons for the departure, filed within 7 days after the date of sentencing. A written transcription of reasons stated orally at sentencing for departure from the lowest permissible sentence is permissible if it is filed by the court within 7 days after the date of sentencing.
(3) Any offender who is sentenced to a departure sentence or any offender who is subject to a minimum mandatory sentence must have the departure sentence and any minimum mandatory sentence so noted on the sentencing scoresheet.
History.—s. 9, ch. 98-204.