Prior Restraint

Prior restraint refers to government actions that prevent speech or expression before it occurs, rather than punishing it afterward. This legal principle is often associated with free speech rights, as it can limit the public's access to information. Courts generally view prior restraint with skepticism, allowing it only in exceptional circumstances, such as national security threats or obscenity. The challenge lies in balancing the need for public order and safety with the fundamental right to express ideas freely. In essence, prior restraint seeks to stop information from being disseminated before it reaches the audience.