CJ Today CH9 Key Terms

aggravating circumstances

Factors that increase the severity or culpability of a criminal act.

capital punishment

The legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a crime.

departure

A deviation from the standard sentencing guidelines.

determinate sentencing

A fixed term of incarceration decided by law.

deterrence

A sentencing goal aimed at discouraging criminal behavior.

good time

Reduction in a prisoner's sentence for good behavior.

habitual offender laws

Laws imposing harsher sentences on repeat offenders.

incapacitation

Preventing future crimes by removing the offender from society.

indeterminate sentencing

A sentence with a minimum and maximum term, allowing parole boards discretion.

just deserts

The concept that offenders deserve punishment proportionate to their crimes.

mandatory sentencing guidelines

Legal rules requiring judges to impose specific sentences for certain crimes.

mitigating circumstances

Factors that reduce the severity or culpability of a criminal act.

presentence investigative report

A report prepared to help the judge determine an appropriate sentence.

real offense

Sentencing based on the actual conduct rather than the official charge.

rehabilitation

The process of reforming an offender to prevent future offenses.

restitution

Payment made by an offender to compensate the victim.

restorative justice

A system focused on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior.

retribution

Punishment inflicted as vengeance for a wrong or criminal act.

sentencing discrimination

Unfair sentencing differences based on race, gender, or other factors.

sentencing disparity

Inconsistent sentencing for similar crimes or offenders.

sentencing guidelines

Standards that provide consistent sentencing ranges for offenses.

truth-in-sentencing laws

Laws requiring offenders to serve a substantial portion of their sentence.

victim impact statement (VIS)

A statement from the victim describing the impact of the crime.