The study first reviews the theoretical approaches which have dominated research, followed by an examination of the literature on how sentencer characteristics influence sentencing. After a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of archival data, the study summarizes some of the findings from Homel's research on the sentencing of drunk drivers. These findings indicate that, based on archival data, factors in magistrates' 'sentencing styles' can be identified. Magistrate sentencing style influences the selection and weighting of information about the offender and the offense. Lawrence's research used indepth interviews with magistrates to determine their reasoning patterns in sentencing shoplifters. This study then proposes a sentencing model that combines the characteristics of the Homel and Lawrence models. It focuses on sentencing processes and outcomes of case and sentencer interactions which can be found in court archives. 2 tables and 74 references.