Chapter 15 Vocab

Question 1

Suspended Sentence

Answer 1

a sentence issued by the court but not actually served.The individual is usually released by the court with no conditions attached.

Question 2

Probation

Answer 2

a system of supervised freedom, usually by a probation officer, for persons convicted of a criminal offense. Typically, the probationee must agree to
certain conditions such as getting a job, avoiding drugs, and not traveling outside
a limited area.

Question 3

Home Confinement

Answer 3

the type of sentence in which the defendant must serve the term at home and usually can leave only for essential purposes, such as work or school.

Question 4

Fine

Answer 4

a monetary penalty imposed upon someone.

Question 5

Restitution

Answer 5

the act of restoring something to its owner; the act of making good for loss or damage; repaying or refunding illegally obtained money or property.

Question 6

Work Release

Answer 6

the type of sentence in which a defendant is allowed to work in the community but is required to return to prison at night or on weekends.

Question 7

Imprisoned

Answer 7

confinement, usually in jail or prison.

Question 8

Death Penalty

Answer 8

a sentence to death for commission of a serious crime, such as murder.

Question 9

Presentence report

Answer 9

a probation officer’s written report that gives the sentencing judge information about the defendant’s background and prospects for rehabilitation.

Question 10

Retribution

Answer 10

punishment given as a kind of revenge for wrongdoing.

Question 11

Deterrence

Answer 11

measures taken to discourage criminal actions; usually some form of punishment. It is the belief that punishment will discourage the offender from
committing future crimes and will serve as an example to keep others from committing crimes.

Question 12

Rehabilitation

Answer 12

the process through which a convicted person is changed or reformed, in order to lead a productive life rather than commit another crime.

Question 13

Incapacitation

Answer 13

a reason for criminal punishment that stresses keeping a convicted person confined to protect society.

Question 14

Parole

Answer 14

release from prison before the full sentence has been served, granted at the discretion of a parole board.

Question 15

Capital Punishment

Answer 15

the death penalty; putting a convicted person to death as punishment for a crime.

Question 16

Aggravating circumstances

Answer 16

factors that tend to increase the seriousness of an

offense. The presence of such circumstances must be considered by the judge and jury.

Question 17

Mitigating circumstances

Answer 17

factors that tend to lessen the seriousness of an

offense. The presence of these factors must be considered by the judge or jury.

Question 18

Reentry

Answer 18

a program created by the U.S. Department of Justice designed to reduce serious crime committed by ex-offenders.