Criminal Law
Introduction
How The Criminal Process Begins
Differences From The Civil Courts
Searches And Seizures
Grand Juries
Indictment
Arrest, Interrogation and Bail
Plea Bargains
Defenses and Exceptions
Evidence
Trial
Specific Offenses
Sentencing
Concurrent and Consecutive Sentences
Sentencing Guidelines
Presentence Reports
Alternatives to Imprisonment
Victim Compensation
Victim Impact Statements
Probation
Sentencing Frequently Asked Questions
Parole
Retaining a Criminal Defense Attorney
Your Criminal Case
Concurrent and Consecutive Sentences
Judges have the authority to "stack" a defendant's sentences when he is convicted of more than one crime. Consecutive or "stacked" sentencing substantially lengthens the defendant's period of incarceration, since one sentence must be completed before the next one begins.
Concurrent sentencing allows a defendant's time in prison to count toward more than one conviction, obviously shortening his incarceration. Although concurrent sentencing is preferable to a defendant, there is no right to obtain concurrent sentences.