Life in prison is one of the harshest sentences that can be handed down in the criminal justice system. A life sentence removes almost all of a person’s civil liberties and leaves them with little hope of ever being free again. But how long is a life sentence really? The answer varies between different legal jurisdictions and the details of each case. This article will examine the typical length of life sentences and factors that affect the actual time served.

Typical Length of a Life Sentence

In most countries, a standard life sentence ranges from 15 years to life in prison without the possibility of parole. This means the person must serve a minimum of 15 years before they are eligible for release. However, release is not guaranteed at that point.

Here are some examples of standard life sentences in different legal systems:

• United States – 15 years to life in prison. Possibility of parole after 15 years served.
• Canada – Life imprisonment with eligibility for parole after 25 years.
• United Kingdom – Life imprisonment with a minimum term set by the judge. Average minimum term is 15 years.
• Australia – Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

So while technically a life sentence means imprisonment for the rest of a person’s life, in reality most life sentences have the possibility of parole after a substantial number of years served.

Life Without Parole

Some jurisdictions also allow for life without the possibility of parole. This means the person will spend the rest of their life in prison no matter what. Life without parole sentences completely remove any chance of release and are considered the harshest form of life sentence.

For example, in the United States, a sentence of life without the possibility of parole means no chance of release except a government pardon or commutation.

Factors Affecting Actual Time Served

While life sentences have defined minimum terms, the actual time served by a prisoner is affected by many factors:

Parole Boards

After the minimum term has been served, release is determined by the parole board. They will assess factors like behavior in prison, remorse for the crime, and likelihood to re-offend. If the board deems the prisoner is still a risk, they can deny parole.

Type of Crime Committed

Crimes that spur public outrage tend to lead to longer prison terms. High profile cases involving murder, rape, or child victims often serve longer sentences as parole boards are hesitant to release them.

Age and Health

A prisoner’s age and health impacts time served. Elderly or severely ill prisoners are more likely to be released earlier, either on compassionate grounds or because they pose little risk.

Overcrowding and Budgets

Prison overcrowding and budgets also determine time served. If a jurisdiction needs to reduce prisoner numbers they may be more inclined to grant parole hearings earlier.

Behavior in Prison

A life prisoner’s behavior and activities during incarceration are strong determinants of parole. Those participating in rehabilitation programs and avoiding trouble are much more likely to demonstrate change and get released.

Politics and Public Perception

Politicians and public opinions about crime also affect how long life sentences are served. Periods with “tough on crime” attitudes often lead to longer sentences. More liberal periods may see earlier releases.

Commutations and Pardons

Finally, government commutations and pardons remain options in some jurisdictions. These are rare but can lead to dramatic reductions in time served.

Is Life Really for Life?

The reality is most life sentences are not for the full natural life of a prisoner. Typical life sentences allow parole hearings after a lengthy minimum term of at least 15 years. However, release is not guaranteed and many factors determine when or if a prisoner will be granted parole and let out of prison.

While there are exceptions, the vast majority of life prisoners do eventually get released if they demonstrate change and rehabilitation over their minimum term. So while life in prison removes liberties and locks people up for decades, there is usually still hope for a second chance at life outside.

Conclusion

Life in prison sentences vary widely between jurisdictions but typically carry lengthy minimum terms before parole can be granted. Actual time served depends on many factors surrounding the individual prisoner and society. While life sentences represent severe punishment, history shows the vast majority of life prisoners do eventually get released if they show change. For most, life in prison does not actually mean dying behind bars no matter how harsh the sentence may seem.