Consecutive sentences

**Consecutive sentences**

Consecutive sentences refer to multiple prison terms served one after the other, rather than at the same time. When a defendant receives consecutive sentences, each sentence begins only after the previous one has been fully completed. This approach often results in a longer overall period of incarceration compared to concurrent sentences, where terms run simultaneously. Understanding consecutive sentences is important for grasping how criminal penalties are structured and how total time served is calculated in the justice system.