truth in sentencing

Truth in sentencing is a legal concept requiring that offenders serve a substantial portion of their prison sentences before being eligible for parole or early release. This initiative aims to improve transparency in the justice system, ensuring that victims and the public understand the length of time an offender will actually spend in prison. By reducing the discrepancies between the sentence given by a judge and the time served, truth in sentencing seeks to enhance accountability and public confidence in the criminal justice system. It varies by jurisdiction and is often accompanied by guidelines for minimum sentence requirements.