Ms. Holmes, founder of the failed blood testing start-up Theranos, is scheduled to learn her fate on Friday. She faces a maximum of 20 years in prison.
Prosecutors have called for the disgraced executive to serve 15 years, while her lawyers say she doesn't belong behind bars.
Judge who oversaw criminal-fraud trial has broad legal discretion amid lawyer recommendations, precedent.
The federal government wants the 38-year-old Elizabeth Holmes to be sentenced to 15 years in prison. Holmes' lawyers are seeking much less.
Elizabeth Holmes is scheduled to appear in court in San Jose on Friday for a sentencing hearing.
The disgraced former CEO will be sentenced this week after being convicted of fraud and conspiracy earlier this year.