Which term denotes a system that imposes fixed penalties with little discretion by the judiciary?

Which term denotes a system that imposes fixed penalties with little discretion by the judiciary?

• A. 3 strike law
• B. Truth in sentencing
• C. Mark system
• D. Mandatory sentencing

Answer: (D)

The main idea is sentencing policies that fix penalties and limit the judge’s ability to tailor a sentence to the individual offender and case. In a system of mandatory sentencing, statutes set minimums or fixed terms for offenses, so judges must impose those penalties regardless of personal circumstances, intent, or blameworthiness. This reduces discretion and aims for uniform punishment but can reduce flexibility for mitigating factors. Three-strikes laws raise penalties after a third qualifying offense, but they involve escalation based on offense history rather than fixed penalties across all cases, and some discretion can still exist in charging decisions or how offenses are counted. Truth in sentencing focuses on ensuring a large portion of the sentence is actually served before release, not on establishing fixed penalties. The Mark System is a historical early-release mechanism based on earned marks, not fixed penalties by the judiciary. Therefore, mandatory sentencing best fits the description of a system with fixed penalties and little judicial discretion.

The main idea is sentencing policies that fix penalties and limit the judge’s ability to tailor a sentence to the individual offender and case. In a system of mandatory sentencing, statutes set minimums or fixed terms for offenses, so judges must impose those penalties regardless of personal circumstances, intent, or blameworthiness. This reduces discretion and aims for uniform punishment but can reduce flexibility for mitigating factors.

Three-strikes laws raise penalties after a third qualifying offense, but they involve escalation based on offense history rather than fixed penalties across all cases, and some discretion can still exist in charging decisions or how offenses are counted. Truth in sentencing focuses on ensuring a large portion of the sentence is actually served before release, not on establishing fixed penalties. The Mark System is a historical early-release mechanism based on earned marks, not fixed penalties by the judiciary. Therefore, mandatory sentencing best fits the description of a system with fixed penalties and little judicial discretion.