A mandatory minimum is a sentence created by Congress |My essay solution

Mandatory minimums are a type of sentencing law that requires judges to impose a minimum sentence for certain crimes, regardless of any mitigating circumstances that might justify a lesser sentence. The purpose of mandatory minimums is to ensure that offenders receive a certain level of punishment for their crimes, and to deter others from committing similar crimes. However, critics argue that mandatory minimums can be overly harsh, disproportionately affecting minority and low-income defendants, and can limit the ability of judges to consider the unique circumstances of each case.