This article details the authors’ attempts to construct a sentencing information system for use in the County Court in the Australian state of Victoria. Particular attention is given to the idea of desocialization of the courts and methods of constructing sentencing information systems. The authors envisage a system that can assist legal aid lawyers to better advise their clients about possible sentencing outcomes as a result of either plea bargain or trial. Advisory systems in this area need to reflect the actual sentencing practice and decision making processes that judges use in reaching their sentences.