What characterizes the nature of consecutive sentences?

The nature of consecutive sentences is characterized by the fact that they are served one after the other. In this type of sentencing, each sentence is completed in full before starting the next. This approach is applied when an individual has been convicted of multiple offenses, resulting in the punishment for each crime being imposed sequentially.

For instance, if a defendant is sentenced to three years for one crime and two years for another, they would serve a total of five years, with each sentence not overlapping but rather following one after the other. This strategy emphasizes the severity of multiple offenses by ensuring that the full weight of each sentence is applied.

In contrast, other options suggest different relationships between sentences, such as occurring at the same time or combining them into a single penalty, which diverges from the foundational principle of consecutive sentencing. This concept establishes a clear and defined structure to sentencing that underscores the gravity of repeated offenses.