Course: Introduction
Judgment suspending sentence is a legal term used in criminal justice that refers to a judge’s decision to defer a sentence or to delay the imposition of a sentence for a certain period of time.
In this type of judgment, the judge finds the defendant guilty of the crime. Instead of immediately imposing a sentence, the judge suspends the sentence, usually for a specific period of time, during which the defendant must meet certain conditions. These conditions may include performing community service, undergoing drug or alcohol treatment, or complying with probation requirements.
If the defendant successfully complies with the conditions during the suspension period, the judge may decide to lift the suspension and impose a lighter sentence or dismiss the charges. However, if the defendant fails to meet the conditions or commits another offense during the suspension period, the judge may revoke the suspension and impose the full sentence originally handed down. Judgment suspending sentence is often used as an alternative to imprisonment for non-violent or first-time offenders and is intended to give defendants an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to rehabilitate and become productive members of society.
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Last Modified: 03/09/2023