Which of the following sentences is mandated by state law for a specific duration?

A mandatory sentence is a type of punishment that is required by law for specific offenses and carries a specific duration that judges are unable to alter. This form of sentencing ensures that individuals convicted of certain crimes receive a predetermined minimum sentence, reflecting the state's commitment to standardizing penalties for certain offenses. This promotes uniformity in sentencing and ensures that offenders are held accountable while also fulfilling public safety concerns.

In contrast, a split sentence involves a combination of incarceration and probation but does not carry a standardized duration for either component, making it more flexible. An indeterminate sentence does not specify the fixed term of imprisonment, allowing for parole eligibility based on behavior and rehabilitation progress. Similarly, a suspended sentence allows for delaying a criminal sentence, contingent on the individual completing certain conditions, but does not impose a mandatory duration as part of the initial sentencing. Thus, the specificity and enforceability of a mandatory sentence in the context of state law’s requirements sets it apart.