Conditional release: The state authorizes conditional release or alternative or diversion sentencing for individual facing their first prosecutions. Generally, conditional release lets an individual opt for probation rather than trial. After successfully finishing probation, the person's criminal record does not reflect the charge.
Mandatory minimum sentence: When an individual is convicted of a violation punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence, the judge must sentence the defendant to the mandatory minimum sentence or to a higher sentence. The judge has no authority to punish the defendant to less time than the mandatory minimum. An inmate serving an MMS for a federal violation and for most state offences will not be eligible for parole. Even peaceful cannabis users sentenced to "life MMS" must serve a life sentence with no chance of parole.
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