come before

verb4

1. •
   To precede.

   • F comes before G in the alphabet.
2. •
   to be of greater importance (than)

   • Looking out for your family should come before making money.
3. •
   To appear publicly in front of someone superior.

   • He was summoned to come before the king.
4. •
   to be judged, decided or discussed by authority.

   • Jones' behavior will come before the board of directors.