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 Pennsylvania, as in other states, the criminal justice system has experienced a shift from traditional discretionary sentencing to a more structured approach due to the implementation of mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses. Mandatory minimums require judges to impose a predetermined minimum sentence for specific crimes, particularly drug offenses, as well as some gun, pornography, and economic crimes. However, it's important to note that the legality and application of mandatory minimum sentences have been subject to legal challenges and changes over time. At the federal level, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines provide a framework for sentencing in federal courts. While these guidelines are advisory rather than mandatory, federal judges must consider them and provide an explanation if they choose to depart from the recommended sentencing range, whether imposing a harsher (upward departure) or more lenient (downward departure) sentence. Pennsylvania judges, when dealing with federal cases, are bound by these guidelines, but for state cases, they must adhere to the specific sentencing laws and guidelines established by Pennsylvania state statutes.