What is the difference between a mandatory minimum sentence and a maximum sentence?

The difference between a mandatory minimum sentence and a maximum sentence can be best understood if we look at how they relate to drug crimes in Washington. A mandatory minimum sentence is a set amount of time that someone convicted of certain drug crimes must serve in prison, even if the judge believes that a shorter sentence is more appropriate. A maximum sentence is the longest amount of time a person could receive for a crime they are convicted of. For example, in Washington, someone convicted of illegal possession of cocaine may receive a mandatory minimum sentence of seven months in jail. However, the maximum amount of time they could receive for this crime is up to five years in prison. This means that if the judge believes the person is more of a danger to society, the judge can sentence them to serve up to five years in prison. In sum, a mandatory minimum sentence is the least amount of time someone convicted of certain drug crimes must serve in prison, regardless of what the judge believes is the appropriate punishment. Meanwhile, a maximum sentence is the longest amount of time someone convicted of a crime can serve in prison.

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What is the difference between a mandatory minimum sentence and a maximum sentence?

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