How many years do you get for a life sentence?

Answer 1

That depends on the circumstance and state, but usually a person can be up for parole after 10-15 years. This doesn't mean they will get out though, just that they have a chance to go in front of the board and plead their case. If you are charged with life imprisonment without eligibility of parole, then you will stay in prison for the rest of your natural life unless the conviction is overturned or you are pardoned.

Answer 2

It's until you die. You will spend the rest of your life in jail If someone has what they call an indeterminant sentence, like 25-life, it means he has a chance at parole someday. But it probably wouldn't be granted until at least that 25 years has been served.

Answer 3

As the term implies, it is for the life of the subject, however many years that will be. - The above response is not strictly true. Of course, it depends on the jurisdiction under which the sentence is being passed. In England and Wales, recommendations for life sentences are set out in the Criminal Justice Act 2003 - very controversial as it appears to diminish the role of sentencing by the judiciary. To cut a long story short, life sentences are generally indeterminate but a recommendation is offered by the presiding judge. On rare occasions, in English law, an individual will receive a 'whole life tariff' (Brady/Hindley etc.) which erradicates the possibility of parole - literally the remainder of his/her life behind bars. Even so, nowdays the Home Secretary can grant release after 25 years to whole lifers if he/she sees fit. This has only happened on one occasion to date due to terminal illness.

Answer 4

From the day you enter prison to the day you are too ill to survive in prison or until you die.