What does commutation of sentence entail?

What does commutation of sentence entail?

• A. The conditional release of a prisoner
• B. The official decision of a court
• C. The reduction of the duration of a prison sentence
• D. A complete pardon granted to a convict

Answer: (C)

Commutation of sentence refers to the process by which a prisoner's sentence is reduced in severity or duration. This can occur for various reasons, including good behavior, changes in laws, or other mitigation factors that may warrant a reduction. Unlike a pardon, which erases the legal consequences of a conviction, commutation merely lowers the length of time that an individual must serve in prison. Therefore, selecting the option that defines commutation as the reduction of a prison sentence accurately captures the essence of this legal process and its impact on an inmate's time in custody. The other options do not accurately represent commutation. Conditional release pertains to parole, which involves setting specific conditions for a prisoner’s release but does not necessarily change the length of their sentence. An official decision of a court encompasses a broader range of judgments than just sentence commutation. Lastly, a complete pardon implies the absolution of guilt and legal consequences, which is distinctly different from merely shortening the duration of a sentence.

Commutation of sentence refers to the process by which a prisoner's sentence is reduced in severity or duration. This can occur for various reasons, including good behavior, changes in laws, or other mitigation factors that may warrant a reduction. Unlike a pardon, which erases the legal consequences of a conviction, commutation merely lowers the length of time that an individual must serve in prison. Therefore, selecting the option that defines commutation as the reduction of a prison sentence accurately captures the essence of this legal process and its impact on an inmate's time in custody.

The other options do not accurately represent commutation. Conditional release pertains to parole, which involves setting specific conditions for a prisoner’s release but does not necessarily change the length of their sentence. An official decision of a court encompasses a broader range of judgments than just sentence commutation. Lastly, a complete pardon implies the absolution of guilt and legal consequences, which is distinctly different from merely shortening the duration of a sentence.