What Is Prior Restraint?

Prior restraint is censorship imposed, usually by a government or institution, on expression, that prohibits particular instances of expression.

What is prior restraint in simple terms?

Definition. In First Amendment law, prior restraint is government action that prohibits speech or other expression before the speech happens. .

What is an example of prior restraint?

Prior Restraint Definition

The government might outright prevent public distribution of media, or place conditions on speech that make it difficult for it to occur. Something as seemingly harmless as a town ordinance restricting where newspapers can be sold could be considered prior restraint.

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Consumer Tech & Gadget Reviewer

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.