Define the four types of sentencing systems in the United States. Which do you think is the most appropriate and why?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

First, indeterminate sentencing occurs when the legislature specifies a minimum and maximum
sentence for each offense or class of offenses. The judge imposes either a minimum and a maximum
term of years or the maximum term only. The parole board decides when the offender will be released
from prison. Second, determinate sentencing occurs when the legislature provides a presumptive range
of confinement for each offense or class of offenses. The judge imposes a fixed term of years within this
range. The offender serves this sentence, minus time off for good behavior. Third, mandatory sentencing
occurs when the legislature requires a mandatory minimum prison sentence for habitual offenders and/or
for offenders convicted of certain crimes. Examples include use of a weapon during the commission of a
crime, drug trafficking, and selling drugs to minors. Last, sentencing guidelines are established by a
legislatively authorized sentencing commission, which establishes voluntary or presumptive sentencing
guidelines. The guidelines typically are based on the seriousness of the offense and the offender’s prior
record. Judges in states with presumptive guidelines are required to follow the guidelines or explain in
writing why they did not.