Concurrent and consecutive sentences
If someone is convicted of committing more than one crime, they are usually given a sentence for each crime.
Concurrent sentences are served at the same time.
Consecutive sentences are served one after the other - eg a 6 month sentence followed by a 3 month sentence.
The judge (or magistrate) tells the person what type of sentence they get and how it must be served.
See also:
- Suspended prison sentences
- Determinate prison sentences - fixed length of time
- Indeterminate prison sentences - no fixed length of time
- Life sentences
- Sentences for young people
For further information: