Prior written notice?

Question from a reader
Is there a difference between notice and prior notice? To my ear, notice includes the idea of prior. For example, when we say that the basic requirements of fairness are notice and an opportunity to be heard, we mean that you have to receive notice of a proceeding in which you have an interest before the proceeding takes place.

Some write in their contract drafts that thus-and-so cannot be done "without prior written notice." I say "written notice" captures the full idea, and "prior" is redundant. What do you think?

Any readers care to comment?