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Term: Indefinite Sentencing
Definition: Indefinite sentencing is when a judge does not give a specific amount of time for a person to be in jail, but instead gives a range of time. The exact amount of time the person will spend in jail is determined later based on their behavior and progress while in jail. This is also called indeterminate sentencing.
Indefinite sentencing is a type of sentencing where a specific term of confinement is not imposed. Instead, a range for the minimum and maximum term is prescribed, leaving the exact term to be determined based on the prisoner's behavior and rehabilitation progress while in prison.
For example, a judge may sentence a convicted criminal to a range of 5 to 10 years in prison. The exact length of the sentence will depend on how the prisoner behaves and progresses while in prison. If the prisoner shows good behavior and rehabilitation progress, they may be released earlier than the maximum term. On the other hand, if the prisoner does not show any progress, they may serve the full maximum term.
Indefinite sentencing is also known as indeterminate sentencing.