What impact have sentencing models had on the correctional system? Be sure to address all four types of sentencing models and the issues surrounding them (fairness, truth in sentencing and proportionality). Sentencing models are plans or strategies developed to impose sanctions for crimes committed. In the 19th century, these sanctions were normally probation, fines, and fixed sentences. When a person received a fixed sentence, they had to serve their entire sentence without parole or early release. However, at the end of the 19th century, new models were developed. These new models include indeterminate, determinate, advisory/voluntary, presumptive and mandatory minimum sentences (Schmalleger & Smykla, 2011). The indeterminate sentence involves the judge pronouncing the sentence, specifying what the maximum sentence and the minimum sentence are. However, the actual length of time served is determined by the parole board. Fixed-term sentences mean prisoners are released early for good behavior. In other words, these inmates receive credits for good behavior or for participating in educational projects, experiments, or programs (Schmalleger & Smykla, 2011). The credits, in turn, reduce the sentence. Then there is sentencing according to advisory/voluntary guidelines. With advisory/voluntary guidelines, the judge uses a guide or recommended sentences from previous cases to determine the length of the sentence. In contrast, presumptive sentencing guidelines involve the judge following guidelines provided by a sentencing commission. In other words, the sentence imposed must be consistent with what is authorized by sentencing commissions. Finally, the final sentencing model is the mandatory minimum sentence. With the obligatory ...... middle of paper ...... possibility of a longer sentence if the trial is lost. In contrast, indeterminate sentences reduce the prison population but create more workloads for community corrections. When the inmate is granted early parole for good behavior, he or she is released on parole. While on parole, community corrections must ensure that these individuals do not violate their parole. Some ways to monitor individuals' behavior are electronic monitoring (if under house arrest), alcohol and drug testing, home visits, and reporting centers. The more people released prematurely, the higher the number of cases (Nieto, 1996). Works Cited Nieto, M. (1996). Community correctional sentences: An alternative to incarceration for nonviolent offenders. Retrieved March 13, 2011 from http://www.library.ca.gov/crb/96/08/Schmalleger, F. and Smykla, J. (2011). Correctional Systems (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill.