There are three uses for the semicolon: # To join two independent clauses (complete sentences) that are closely related.

To join two independent clauses when the second clause begins

with a conjunctive adverb or a transitional phrase (therefore, however, as a result, in fact, etc.) # To separate items in a series when one or more of the items contain a comma. The semicolon serves the same purpose as a coordinate conjunction. However, the semicolon is used sparingly whereas the coordinate conjunction may be used often.