Sentencing and Punishment Review

Flashcards covering major terms and definitions related to sentencing and punishment as discussed in the lecture.

Sentencing

The imposition of a criminal sanction by a judicial authority, usually made by judges.

Retribution

A just deserts perspective that emphasizes taking revenge on a criminal perpetrator.

Incapacitation

The use of imprisonment or other means to reduce the likelihood that a particular offender will commit more crime.

Deterrence

A sentencing rationale that seeks to inhibit criminal behavior through punishment or the fear of punishment.

Rehabilitation

The attempt to reform a criminal offender, preparing the individual to contribute to society upon return.

Restoration

A goal of criminal sentencing that seeks to make the victim 'whole again.'

Indeterminate sentencing

A model of criminal punishment that encourages rehabilitation via the use of general sentences; sentences may range from a minimum to a maximum.

Determinate sentencing

An offender is given a fixed term of incarceration that may be reduced for good behavior.

Consecutive sentences

Serve one sentence after another, with the total time served being the sum of all sentences.

Concurrent sentences

Multiple sentences served at the same time.

Aggravating circumstances

Factors relating to the crime that increase its severity, leading to harsher sentences.

Mitigating circumstances

Factors relating to the crime that may lessen the culpability of the defendant, resulting in lighter sentences.

Capital punishment

The death penalty; the most extreme of all sentencing options.

Victim-impact statement

A statement that involves the victim's feelings about the punishment during the sentencing process.

Truth in sentencing

A close correspondence between the sentence imposed on an offender and the time actually served prior to release.

Three strikes laws

Laws that impose severe penalties on individuals who are convicted of three or more serious crimes.

Mandatory sentencing

A structured sentencing scheme that requires specific punishments for certain offenses.

Death penalty exonerations

Cases in which individuals on death row are found to be innocent and released.