How long can someone face prison time for a federal crime?

In California, the length of prison time for a federal crime can vary greatly depending on the crime committed and the severity of the crime. Sentencing for federal crimes is decided by a federal judge in accordance with what is outlined in the federal sentencing guidelines. A federal judge will also take into account any aggravating or mitigating factors that may be present, such as the defendant’s criminal history and the circumstances surrounding the crime. Generally speaking, the minimum prison sentence for most federal crimes is zero years but can range up to life in prison. Federal crimes such as first-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated sexual assault typically come with a sentence of life in prison or the death penalty. Other serious federal offenses like bank robbery and drug trafficking often come with long sentences of up to 20 years in prison. For lesser offenses such as drug possession, the sentencing can range anywhere from several months to several years in prison. The length of prison time for federal crimes can also be impacted by plea deals, wherein the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. Ultimately, the length of time someone will face prison time for a federal crime will depend on the specifics of the crime.

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How long can someone face prison time for a federal crime?

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