Life imprisonment

Life imprisonment is a term used for a particular kind of sentence of imprisonment. The effect of such a sentence varies between jurisdictions; many nations have a maximum possible period of time a prisoner may be incarcerated, or require the possibility of parole after a set amount of time.

Interpretation in Asia and Oceania

• In the People's Republic of China, the term of life imprisonment depends upon the nature of the crime. Those serving life sentences for non-violent crimes can apply for parole after ten years; however this does not apply to those serving life sentences for violent crimes such as murder, rape, robbery and kidnapping, who are to remain imprisoned until their deaths.
• In Australia, life imprisonment is of indeterminate length. The sentencing judge usually sets a non-parole period, usually of 15-25 years but could be more, after which the prisoner can apply for parole. In the case of a criminal who has committed particularly heinous crimes, the sentencing judge may recommend that the person is "never to be released".