California Correctional Lieutenant Practice Exam

What defines a determinate sentence?

1. An imprisonment period that is flexible based on behavior

2. A fixed term of incarceration that cannot be altered

3. An agreement to serve community service instead of prison

4. A type of sentence that allows for parole eligibility

The correct answer is: A fixed term of incarceration that cannot be altered

A determinate sentence is defined as a fixed term of incarceration that cannot be altered. This type of sentencing means that once the judge has set the length of the sentence, it is predetermined and remains constant, irrespective of the incarcerated individual's behavior or any other considerations. As a result, the individual serves the specific amount of time imposed by the court without the possibility of early release based on behavioral factors or parole eligibility. This clarity in sentencing helps provide a sense of certainty in the judicial process, both for the offender and victims or society, as everyone understands the exact duration of incarceration. In contrast, other options describe different forms of sentencing or alternatives to prison but do not relate to the concept of a determinate sentence. For instance, flexible sentences based on behavior or parole eligibility introduce variability that characterizes indeterminate sentencing rather than determinate sentencing.