Sentencing Models

SENTENCING MODELS

Justin Smith

Kaplan University-CJ299

3/14/2013

SENTENCING MODELS

Abstract:

This essay will examine and describe indeterminate and determinate sentencing, the strengths and weaknesses of the sentencing model, and the impact of sentencing guidelines. The advantages of having the guidelines include the opportunity to reduce sentencing inconstancies, making sure violent crime offenders are punished accordingly, and the chance to lessen prison overcrowding by standardizing the guidelines in such a way that can make space for violent offenders who have committed serious crimes and those with a long criminal history. The sentencing guidelines will vary and have major differences and goals in the system. Overall, it is good we have both determinate and indeterminate sentencing in the justice system.

SENTENCING MODELS

Indeterminate sentencing is the system of sentencing when the Judge mandates the maximum and minimum terms that should be applied for each convicted offender. If the sentence includes prison time, the parole board will determine just how long the convicted inmate will serve under correctional supervision. Rehabilitation is the key behind indeterminate sentencing, as the sentence should meet the needs of that offender, and until evidence proves the offender is clean and cured. The parole boards in many states can even release inmates after a minimum portion of their sentence has been served, and to further reduce the sentence, there is the Good-time law. Good time actually can reduce a small portion of sentence by exhibiting constant good behavior when locked up. There are many benefits to the sentence reduction programs that include inmates motivated to have good behavior and a reduction in overcrowding (ALCS, 2011).

On the other side, determinate sentences will require the offender to serve a set sentence length with the slight possibility of reduction for parole. With determinate sentencing, a...