Abuse of discretion

Definition

The standard by which appellate courts review a district court's decision on compassionate release. A court abuses its discretion when it makes a decision that is clearly unreasonable, arbitrary, or not supported by the facts and law. This deferential standard gives trial judges significant latitude but allows reversal in extreme cases.

Examples

• •The Sixth Circuit in United States v. Bass found abuse of discretion where a district court reduced the sentence of a life-imprisoned murderer based on COVID-related concerns

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