CRI听力:Legal Expert on Sentencing Pistorius for Culpable Homicide

Legal arguments on deciding the sentence of Oscar Pistorius has begun after he was convicted of culpable homicide over the killing of his model girlfriend.

Sentences for culpable homicide, South Africa's equivalent of manslaughter, can range from a suspended sentence and a fine to 15 years in prison.

South African legal expert, Llewellyn Curlewis, says it is unlikely the full 15-year custodial sentence will be handed down.

"I think about three or four possibilities re up there; a penalty fine, remember the family can afford whatever the court imposes penalty-wise, maybe coupled with a suspended sentence. Then obviously there is the prerogative of direct imprisonment - up to 15 years. However I don't think that is a very realistic option - the 15 years of direct imprisonment - maybe a lesser time of custodial sentence. Then obviously there is the prerogative to impose what we call correctional supervision."

The South African track star was charged with premeditated murder in a televised trial, but the Judge found him not guilty of that charge which would have brought a much heavier sentence.

The state could yet decide to appeal the culpable verdict in pursuit of a murder conviction.

Under South African law, an appeal cannot be launched until sentencing has been concluded.