Determinate Custodial Sentence - 12 months or more

This page will provide you with information on Determinate Custodial Sentences (DCS) for a 12-month period or more.

How a determinate custodial sentence works

A judge will fix the amount of time which must be spent in custody as well as a period on licence. The custody part of the sentence cannot be greater than half of the overall sentence. Prisoners are released on licence at the end of their custodial period automatically.

Licence conditions

During the licence period, an offender is liable to recall to custody if they break their licence conditions. If recalled, an offender may have to serve the rest of their sentence in custody. All recalls are reviewed by the Parole Commissioners (PCNI) who can re-release an offender before the end of the licence period.

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Determinate Custodial Sentence - 12 months or more

How a determinate custodial sentence works

Licence conditions

More useful links

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What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment

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Select a language

Determinate Custodial Sentence - 12 months or more

How a determinate custodial sentence works

Licence conditions

More useful links

Help improve this page - send your feedback

Messages

What to do next

Carer's Allowance

Discretionary support / Short-term benefit advance

Disability Living Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance

Jobseeker’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment