No, that is why it is called MANDATORY minimum. The legislature has removed from judges the power to deviate from the minimum time required to be served.
No, that is why it is called a MANDATORY minimum sentence.
No, that is why it is called a MANDATORY minimum sentence. The judge has no discretion.
Yes, it is possible for a mandatory minimum sentence to be reduced under certain circumstances, such as through a plea bargain, cooperation with authorities, or successful appeal.
Mandatory sentencing and mandatory minimum sentencing are related but not identical concepts. Mandatory sentencing refers to laws that require a specific sentence or range of sentences for certain crimes, leaving little to no discretion for judges. Mandatory minimum sentencing specifically establishes the lowest possible sentence that can be imposed for a particular offense, ensuring that offenders serve a minimum amount of time in prison. While both aim to standardize sentencing, mandatory minimums focus specifically on the minimum threshold.
The answer lies within the question. "Minimum MANDATORY" - means the judge has no option to sentence less. The sentence was set by the state legislature.
If a statute imposes a mandatory minimum sentence of incarceration, then yes, it is "binding" meaning a judge cannot impose a sentence less than that minimum.
No. A "mandatory" minimum is exactly what its name implies. The judge has no discretion and MUST impose the minimum set by the statute.
Not likely. It is, after all, the very minimum. But they may get early release with good behavior.
Charge bargaining would allow avoidance of a mandatory minimum, if the prosecutor were to amend the charges to a crime that did not carry the mandatory sentence. For further information see the related link below.
Technically speaking, a person convicted of a crime for which a mandatory minimum sentence is handed down will serve that minimum sentence or higher, depending on several factors. But oftentimes a Defendant will plea guilty to a lesser offense where he may get less than the mandatory minimum, if any, jail time. Beleive it or not, plea offers are presented by the Government, and can often be negotiated by the defense. It is up to the Defendant whether to accept the offer.
In Georgia the sentence is a maximum of 30 years and a minimum of 10 years. There is a mandatory $200,000 fine.
In Virginia, the minimum sentence for using a firearm in the commission of a felony is five years. This sentence is mandatory and is served consecutively to any other sentence for the underlying felony. Additionally, if the firearm is used in a violent crime, the penalties may be more severe.