Criminal sentencing varies by state and jurisdiction, with each making their own laws unless they are prohibited by federal law. During such a stressful time, an individual may be wondering how they might keep the time spent incarcerated as short as possible.Ī criminal sentence is a legal punishment imposed upon a defendant who was convicted of a crime. When an individual is convicted of a crime, either a misdemeanor or a felony, they may be facing time in jail or prison. Can I Get My Time Reduced? A Guide To Reducing A Criminal Sentence