A life sentence means the convicted person is subject to that sentence for the rest of their natural life. However, the actual time spent in prison can vary significantly depending on the legal system and the specific sentence imposed.
- In the UK, a life sentence means the offender is under that sentence for life, but the judge sets a minimum term (tariff) they must serve before being eligible for parole. After release, they remain on licence for life and can be recalled to prison if considered a risk. A "whole life order" means the offender spends their entire life in prison without parole
- In the United States, life sentences can be "indeterminate" (e.g., 25 years to life), allowing parole eligibility after a minimum term, or "determinate" (life without parole), meaning the person will spend their entire life in prison unless pardoned. Parole eligibility varies by state, often starting after 7 to 15 years or more
- Generally, a life sentence can be interpreted as anywhere from 15 to 40 years before parole eligibility, depending on jurisdiction and case specifics. Some offenders receive consecutive life sentences, extending the minimum time before parole
In summary, a life sentence is legally for the person's whole life, but the minimum number of years served before parole eligibility typically ranges from about 15 to 40 years, with some cases involving no parole at all (whole life or life without parole).
