In my experience - Judges have to make comment on points raised by the defence in mitigation. If they don’t it can lead to an appeal..

At most sentences - I hear Judges acknowledge these points raised in mitigation by the defence and they say ' I have given points A - F consideration in reaching my verdict.' etc

I don’t think by saying that they 1) believe or accept all the points or 2) give any weight to them.

However, if they don't use those words it seems to open up the avenues for appeals etc.

That’s why I think they say what they do.....

Piglet