Custodial and Non-Custodial Sentences Flashcards
What is a custodial sentence?
A sentence where an offender is imprisoned for a period of time, such as in a jail or prison.
What are some examples of custodial sentences?
Life imprisonment, determinate sentences (fixed term), indeterminate sentences (no set release date), and suspended sentences (only served if further crime is committed).
What is a non-custodial sentence?
A punishment that does not involve time in prison, allowing the offender to serve their sentence in the community.
What are examples of non-custodial sentences?
Community service, fines, probation, electronic tagging, rehabilitation programs, and restorative justice.
What are the aims of custodial sentences?
Retribution, deterrence, incapacitation, and rehabilitation.
What are the aims of non-custodial sentences?
Rehabilitation, deterrence, and reparation (restoring harm done to victims/society).
What is the difference between determinate and indeterminate custodial sentences?
A determinate sentence has a fixed end date, whereas an indeterminate sentence does not have a set release date and depends on parole board decisions.
How does electronic tagging work as a non-custodial sentence?
Offenders wear an electronic tag that monitors their location and enforces curfews to restrict movement.
What are the advantages of custodial sentences?
Protects society, deters crime, punishes offenders, and provides access to rehabilitation programs in prison.
What are the disadvantages of custodial sentences?
High reoffending rates, expensive for taxpayers, overcrowded prisons, and limited rehabilitation opportunities.
What are the advantages of non-custodial sentences?
Reduces prison overcrowding, costs less, focuses on rehabilitation, and allows offenders to contribute to society.
What are the disadvantages of non-custodial sentences?
May not act as a strong deterrent, some offenders may breach conditions, and victims might feel justice has not been served.
What is restorative justice?
A process where offenders meet their victims to understand the impact of their crime and take responsibility.
How does probation work?
An offender serves their sentence in the community under strict supervision and must follow certain conditions, such as attending rehabilitation programs.
Why might a judge choose a non-custodial sentence instead of prison?
If the offender is not a danger to society, if rehabilitation is more beneficial, or if prison would be disproportionately harsh (e.g., for minor crimes).
How do Christian views on justice influence attitudes towards punishment?
Many Christians believe justice should be fair but also compassionate, with a focus on repentance and forgiveness.
What is the Christian attitude toward custodial sentences?
Some support them for serious crimes (retribution and protection of society), but many believe they should also focus on rehabilitation and forgiveness.
What Bible verse supports the idea of punishment for wrongdoing?
Romans 13:4 – “For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.”
What Bible verse supports forgiveness and rehabilitation?
Matthew 6:14 – “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”
Why do some Christians support non-custodial sentences?
They align with Jesus’ teachings on mercy, second chances, and the belief that people can change (e.g., the Parable of the Prodigal Son).
How do Christian charities help prisoners and offenders?
Groups like the Prison Fellowship provide spiritual guidance, rehabilitation programs, and support for offenders and their families.
How does the principle of “restorative justice” connect with Christian beliefs?
It reflects Jesus’ teachings on reconciliation, love, and healing broken relationships.
What do Christians believe about supporting ex-offenders?
Many believe in giving ex-offenders a chance to reintegrate into society, following the idea of redemption.
What Christian teaching supports the idea of reforming criminals rather than just punishing them?
Ezekiel 18:23 – “Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? Declares the Sovereign Lord. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?”
