Legal Definitions - flat time

Flat time refers to a specific period of incarceration or a sentence that must be served in its entirety, without any possibility of reduction for good behavior, parole, or other early release mechanisms. It means the convicted individual must complete the full duration of the sentence as ordered by the court or mandated by law.

• Example 1: Mandatory Minimum Sentence for Repeat Offenses

  • Scenario: A state legislature enacts a new law that imposes a mandatory minimum sentence of five years "flat time" for individuals convicted of a third felony drug trafficking offense.
  • Explanation: Under this law, anyone found guilty of this specific crime, regardless of their conduct while incarcerated or any other mitigating factors, must serve the full five years in prison. There is no opportunity for parole, early release for good behavior, or any other reduction to that five-year period.

• Example 2: Judicial Sentencing Order for Violent Crime

  • Scenario: During a sentencing hearing for a particularly heinous violent crime, the judge declares that the defendant will serve a sentence of ten years, explicitly stating it is "flat time."
  • Explanation: By specifying "flat time," the judge is ensuring that the defendant will not be eligible for parole consideration after a portion of the sentence, nor will they receive credits for good behavior that could shorten their incarceration. The defendant is legally obligated to remain imprisoned for the entire ten-year duration.