Legal Definitions - mandatory penalty

Definition: A mandatory penalty is a punishment that is set by law and must be imposed by a judge without any discretion to individualize the punishment. It is also known as a mandatory sentence.

Example: In some states, a mandatory penalty for a first-time DUI offense is a fine of $500 and a license suspension of six months. This means that if a person is found guilty of a first-time DUI offense, the judge must impose this penalty, regardless of any other circumstances.

Explanation: The example illustrates how a mandatory penalty works. The law sets a specific punishment for a particular offense, and the judge has no discretion to impose a different punishment. This is intended to ensure consistency in sentencing and to deter people from committing crimes by making the punishment predictable and severe.