Sometimes I see that some convicted killer or whatever is sentenced to 100 years, or some really long time like that. Seeing as that’s more than the average lifespan (and these people are adults to start with), why don’t they just get “life in prison”? Is there some sort of rationale to doing it in years? Also, sometimes someone will get sentenced to two (or more) life terms. Obviously, this would be a term for each person he or she killed. But it still doesn’t make sense to me. Anyone have the answers?
Means a longer time before that person is eligible for parole, I believe.
For example, someone serving one life sentence would be eligible for parole in X years, while someone serving two life sentences would be eligible for parole in 2X years.
If I’m wrong, I’m sure someone will correct me.
I think Kat is right. Generally people who are sentenced to life in prison are eligible for parole after 20 years or so. If the person is convicted of two murdurs, he might be eligible for parole in 40 years.
WAGs:
Another possibility is that the person was convicted for a bunch of crimes that don’t require “life” sentences, for example, a person who went nuts and shot up a McDonalds might be convicted of 20 counts of murder in the second degree. If murder in the second degree has a minimum sentence of ten years, the person would be sentenced to a minimum of 200 years in prison.
You also have to see if the sentences are consecutive or concurrant. (boy those aren’t spelled right are they) If consecutive then you have to complete one sentence then start the next one before being considered for parole. If you get two consecutive life sentences you will never go up for parole as you have to complete the first life sentence and then 20 years (or 30 in some places) later you can come up for parole. Same with non capitol crimes. If you went on a robbery spree and held seven 7-11s and you get convicted for doing all seven of them and are given 7 to eleven years concurent sentences you would come up for parole in about 3 years even you were given 49 to 77 years.
I hope that makes it clear.
Different jurisdictions also have differing answers. in addition, some places use the term “life w/o possability of parole” which would mean natural life.
Sometimes, the judge wishes to express that the crime, in particular was particularly heinous.
But, regarding to the practice of trying an individual for multiple crimes, tho’ each indivdual sentence would take them to the max of their life - there are two additional reasons for that practice.
the first reason is to insure the person will stay in prison in case one of the cases was thrown out on a technicality or after appeal. By the time appeals processes go on, it may be too late to charge some one (statute of limitations for crimes less than murder), and definately may be too late to get a conviction (witnesses may die, or their memories fade).
the second reason has to do with the victim and their relaties. Some times people get a sense of closure knowing the perpetrator is imprisoned specifically for killing/harming their loved one.