What may result from an individual's criminal history when committing serious crimes?

An individual's criminal history can significantly impact the severity of the sentence they may face when committing serious crimes. A prior record often indicates a pattern of criminal behavior or a lack of respect for the law, leading the legal system to impose heavier or lengthier sentences as a means of providing justice and discouraging future criminal acts. The judicial system aims to address not only the crime committed but also the context of the offender's previous interactions with the law, which may warrant a harsher penalty. This approach serves both as punishment and as a deterrent, reflecting the belief that repeat offenders present a greater risk to society and, therefore, deserve more stringent consequences for their actions.