So I asked ChatGPT and it seems I was wrong:
Sentencing criminals to a specific number of years, even when it effectively amounts to life imprisonment, serves several purposes in legal and social contexts:
1. Distinction Between Life Sentences and Fixed Terms
- Parole Eligibility: In many jurisdictions, a life sentence means the possibility of parole after a specific period, while a fixed term might explicitly exclude parole until the sentence is completed.
- Appeal and Clemency: Fixed-term sentences allow for clear benchmarks for appeals, clemency, or sentence reductions based on good behavior or changes in law.
2. Precision in Sentencing
- Judges assign sentences that correspond to the severity of the crime, often based on guidelines or statutory requirements. For example, crimes might carry mandatory minimums or enhancements (e.g., for repeat offenders), resulting in very high numbers.
Thanks for sharing this. It was very insightful.