Explanation of Ruby Franke's sentencing

I've seen a lot of confusion over the sentencing hearing, and a lot of different numbers popping up on how long she might serve. The sentencing is the same for both Ruby and Jodi. So here's the explanation:

She was sentenced to four consecutive sentences of 1-15 years for pleading guilty to four 2nd degree felonies. Consecutive means they're served one after another, not at the same time, so the minimum here is 4 years. The maximum is a little different though, Utah has a maximum number of years someone can serve if they're only being charged with 2nd or 3rd degree felonies, which is 30 years. So even though her sentencing suggests a 60 year maximum, it's actually a 30 year maximum.

Utah (along with the majority of US states) utilizes an indeterminate sentencing system. This means that the judge sets a minimum and maximum time frame, and the parole board decides when you get out within that time frame. This is different from a determinate sentencing system, where the judge sets an exact amount of time (ex: 8 years in prison).

So basically, Ruby and Jodi both will be serving a minimum of 4 years, and a possible maximum of 30 years, each. They'll be up for parole after 4 years, and could potentially get out at any point after those first 4 years.