Confinement is a term that describes the length of time in which an individual is sentenced to prison or jail time, as it pertains to criminal law. Confinement periods are based on a number of factors. Each state sets the limits and statutes on what length of time of confinement is necessary based on the type of crime that is committed. Most sentence terms are based on a range of years. Then it is up to the judge or the jury to determine the appropriate sentence based on those ranges offered by the state's laws. The period of confinement will also be defined by what type of confinement is necessary, based on the risk factors associated with the individual.