highest sentence

[/ˈhaɪəst ˈsentəns/]
noun phrasepl: highest sentences
sentença máxima
1. The most severe or longest prison sentence that can be imposed for a particular crime under the law
The defendant faces the highest sentence of life imprisonment for murder.
O réu enfrenta a sentença máxima de prisão perpétua por homicídio.
2. The maximum penalty established by law for a specific criminal offense
The judge imposed the highest sentence allowed by statute for drug trafficking.
O juiz aplicou a sentença máxima permitida pela lei para tráfico de drogas.
This term is central to criminal law discussions in both Brazil and the United States. In Brazil, the maximum sentence for most crimes is limited by the 1988 Constitution and the Brazilian Penal Code, while in the US it varies by state and federal law. The concept is frequently discussed in legal proceedings and media coverage of high-profile criminal cases.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
maximum sentencemaximum penaltylongest sentencemaximum prison term
Antonyms / Antônimos
minimum sentencelightest sentencelenient sentence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
sentença máxima
Most common usage in Brazilian legal contexts
São Paulo
pena máxima
Alternative term frequently used in São Paulo courts
Rio de Janeiro
sentença máxima
Standard legal terminology
Portugal
pena máxima
Portuguese legal system uses 'pena máxima' more frequently

Related Words

sentenceverdictpenaltyimprisonmentconvictionsentencingpunishmentcriminal law

Related Idioms & Phrases

face the highest sentence
receive the highest sentence
impose the highest sentence
eligible for the highest sentence
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