Define mandatory sentencing

Question

The trend in the United States is toward mandatory sentencing for most criminal offenses. Include the following in your initial post:

1. Define mandatory sentencing.
2. Discuss the pros and cons of mandatory sentencing.
3. Provide your opinion of whether or not you agree with mandatory sentencing provisions.
4. Examine whether or not courts should view each case based on its own facts, or whether or not equal justice can only be achieved through mandatory minimum sentencing.