What Is Probation Without Verdict?

Understanding probation without verdict.

A majority of criminal cases are settled through plea negotiations without ever going to trial. Some jurisdictions permit what is known as probation without verdict, also known as a deferred judgment.

Function

Probation without verdict allows a negotiated settlement of a criminal case whereby a defendant serves a term of probation. If completed successfully, the underlying criminal case is dismissed.

Features

Typically probation without verdict requires no further law violations and the completion of other requirements like substance-abuse counseling.

Types

There are two different types of probation without verdict, supervised and unsupervised. If there are conditions beyond compliance with the law, the term is supervised.

Benefits

The major benefit to a criminal defendant of probation without verdict is that there is no conviction if she satisfies all requirements.

Warning

A typical probation without verdict agreement precludes a trial if the defendant fails to satisfy the terms of the agreement. A violation results in the entry of a guilty plea.

References

• "Probation, Parole and Community Corrections;" Dean J. Champion; 2007
• American Probation and Parole Association
• "Probation and Parole: Theory and Practice;" Howard Abadinsky; 2008

Resources

• American Bar Association: Section of Criminal Justice