When someone is convicted of multiple crimes, a judge must decide how those sentences will be served. Will the prison terms run concurrently or consecutively?
Concurrent sentences mean the defendant serves all the sentences at the same time. Consecutive sentences mean they serve each sentence one after the other. So, if someone receives two 10-year sentences, concurrent would mean they serve a total of 10 years, while consecutive would mean they serve 20.
Understanding the difference between concurrent vs consecutive sentences is crucial, as it directly affects the total time a defendant spends in prison. Judges have considerable leeway in deciding which type of sentence to impose.