When may a court impose consecutive sentences on an individual?

A court may impose consecutive sentences on an individual if the defendant has prior convictions. This approach serves several purposes within the judicial system. First, it addresses the severity and risk associated with repeat offenders, reflecting the legal perspective that individuals who repeatedly violate the law may warrant harsher penalties. By imposing consecutive sentences, the court aims to deter further criminal behavior, promote public safety, and convey that the judicial system takes habitual offenses seriously.

While other factors, such as the nature of the charges or the discretion of the judge, can influence sentencing decisions, the presence of prior convictions specifically allows for a more structured basis to impose consecutive sentences. This can be aligned with statutes or guidelines that provide for increased penalties for repeat offenders, underscoring the intention of the law to provide stronger responses to recidivism.