What term describes a sentence that must be served successively (not at the same time) as a sentence for a different offense?

• A. Consecutive sentence
• B. Common law
• C. Certification
• D. Cause of action

Answer: (A)

When multiple criminal sentences are imposed, they can run either at the same time or one after another. A consecutive sentence means each sentence must be served after the previous one finishes, so the total time is the sum of the individual terms. For example, if five years are imposed for one offense and three years for another, a consecutive arrangement would require eight years of confinement. This contrasts with a concurrent sentence, where both offenses’ sentences run together and you serve only the longest term. The other terms don’t describe sentencing structure: common law is judge-made law, certification is a formal process, and a cause of action is a civil claim.