Alex Was Recently Found Guilty of First-Degree Murder

Multiple Choice

Alex was recently found guilty of first-degree murder.  Based upon state law, the judge was forced to use a system/guideline to determine the sentence that he was to receive.  Alex was sentenced to 25 years in prison.  He will spend his time in a prison approximately 25 miles from his home.  Alex was thankful for this sentence because it was a death penalty case otherwise.
The judge in Alex's case most likely had to use _____ to determine the sentence that must be rendered.

A) sentencing guidelines
B) discretion
C) good time
D) earned time