Jail, Prison, Fines, Community Service, and Alternatives

Judges often have many options when sentencing convicted defendants.

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Many factors influence a defendant's sentence: The severity of the case, the discretion the legislature has given the judge to impose an appropriate sentence, and the needs of the criminal justice system.

May the Punishment Fit the Crime

Learn about standard (and not so standard) punishments.

Why Judges Order Defendants to Jail or Prison
A defendant's conduct during the trial can often influence a judge's sentencing decision to incarcerate him.

Beyond Jail: Fines and Restitution
Paying the state for breaking the law, and making the victim "whole," are two types of punishments.

Community Service
Ordering a defendant to work for the community, either the government or a nonprofit group, is a constructive sentence.

Really Alternative Sentences
Some legislators and judges have come up with unusual and effective alternatives to fines, jail, and service.

Commonly Asked Questions

You may be wondering about issues discussed here.

Is confiscating a defendant’s car a type of fine?
Civil forfeiture is not the same as a fine, though it might feel as if it is.

“Time served” sounds great. Why not take the deal right away?
Think carefully about the consequences of any plea.