Minimum and Maximum Sentences

In sentencing law, minimum and maximum sentences refer to the range of punishment that a judge can impose for a specific crime. The minimum sentence is the shortest amount of time someone can serve if convicted, while the maximum is the longest they can serve. For example, if a law states a crime has a minimum sentence of 2 years and a maximum of 10 years, the judge can choose to impose any length of time within that range, depending on the circumstances of the crime and the offender's background.