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What does a mandatory life sentence for murder entail?

  1. The offender is sentenced for a minimum of 10 years

  2. The sentence lasts until death but has a minimum years before eligibility for release

  3. The offender serves a predetermined fixed term before release

  4. The judge can choose to impose a non-custodial sentence

The correct answer is: The sentence lasts until death but has a minimum years before eligibility for release

A mandatory life sentence for murder signifies that the offender is given a sentence that lasts for life, reflecting the severe nature of the crime. However, it also has stipulations regarding the minimum period that must be served before the offender can be considered for release. This is typically known as the "minimum term" or "tariff" and is set by the judge during sentencing, who considers various factors such as the seriousness of the crime and the circumstances surrounding it. This approach acknowledges the principle of punishment for serious offenses, while allowing for the possibility of rehabilitation and eventual release under strict conditions, reflecting both justice and humanity in sentencing. In practical terms, while the individual will remain under a life sentence, they may not be incarcerated indefinitely if they show evidence of rehabilitation during the minimum period of imprisonment. Thus, B is correct as it encapsulates the essence of a mandatory life sentence: serving until death unless eligible for release after a specified minimum period.