Criminal justice systems in the United States—in both state and federal courts—traditionally allowed judges to consider all of the facts and circumstances of a case to determine a convicted defendant’s appropriate sentence. But the United States Congress and many state legislatures have passed laws that force judges to give fixed jail or prison terms (mandatory minimum sentences) to persons convicted of certain crimes—often drug offenses, but also certain gun, pornography, and economic crimes.

For example, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines are non-binding rules that provide a uniform sentencing policy for defendants convicted of crimes in the United States federal court system. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines are not mandatory, but judges must consider them when determining a criminal defendant’s sentence—and when a judge exercises discretion and departs from the Guidelines, the judge must explain what factors warranted the increased or decreased sentence—known as an upward departure or a downward departure.

In Iowa, as in many states, the criminal justice system has been influenced by the implementation of mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses. These laws require judges to impose predetermined sentences for specific crimes, particularly drug offenses, as well as some gun, pornography, and economic crimes. This limits judicial discretion by setting minimum terms of imprisonment that judges must adhere to, regardless of the individual circumstances of a case. However, for federal crimes, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines provide a framework for sentencing uniformity across the federal court system. While these guidelines are advisory rather than mandatory, federal judges in Iowa must consider them when sentencing a defendant. If a judge decides to deviate from these guidelines, either with an upward or downward departure, they are required to provide an explanation for their decision. This system aims to balance the need for consistency in sentencing with the recognition that each case may present unique factors that warrant a different approach.