How much of an inmates sentences must they serve in Illinois?

Question

How much of an inmates sentences must they serve in Illinois?

Answer 1

Determinate sentencing became effective in February, 1978. Inmates convicted of crimes committed in 1978 or later were given determinate sentences -- specific amounts of time based on the seriousness of the crime Previously, an inmate received an indeterminate sentence -- or range of time -- and appeared before the Parole and Pardon Board which determined suitability for release to parole. Until passage of "truth in sentencing" laws in the 1990's, all inmates were to spend half their sentences incarcerated in jail or prison (less awards of good time as explained above). This allowed all involved -- the victim, the criminal, the courts, law enforcement agencies, corrections, and the general public -- to know when the inmate would be released from prison.