Mandatory minimums

Mandatory minimums refer to laws that set the lowest possible sentences that judges must impose for certain crimes, particularly serious offenses such as drug trafficking or violent crimes. These laws aim to create uniformity in sentencing and deter crime by ensuring that offenders serve a minimum time in prison. However, they can limit judges' discretion to consider individual circumstances of a case, potentially leading to disproportionately harsh penalties for some offenders. Critics argue that this approach can contribute to overcrowded prisons and does not effectively address the underlying issues of crime.