prior(s)

prior(s)
Slang for past convictions. A defendant with "priors" may face an enhanced sentence for a current offense, as happens when a defendant convicted of driving under the influence reoffends, thus earning the mandatory jail sentence provided for repeat offenders. In order to impose an enhanced sentence in a current case, the prosecutor must plead, or allege, the past conviction, and prove that it happened.
Category: Criminal Law
Category: Small Claims Court & Lawsuits

Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary. . 2009.

prior(s)
n.
   slang for a criminal defendant's previous record of criminal charges, convictions, or other judicial disposal of criminal cases (such as probation, dismissal or acquittal). Only previous felony convictions can be introduced into evidence. However, the record of "priors" can have an impact on sentencing, as with prior drunk driving convictions requiring mandatory jail sentences, and "three strikes, you're out," providing for extended sentences for the third felony conviction.

Law dictionary. . 2013.

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