Conditional Discharge
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Plain-English Meaning
A sentence that releases a convicted defendant without probation supervision or jail, but subject to conditions set by the court — such as staying out of trouble, completing community service, or attending a program. Violating the conditions can result in resentencing.
Legal Context
Under N.Y. Penal Law § 65.05, a conditional discharge is a sentence in which the court releases the defendant subject to conditions it specifies. Unlike probation, there is no ongoing supervision by a probation officer. Conditions commonly include: no new arrests for a period of time, completion of community service, payment of restitution, and participation in treatment programs. A conditional discharge is a conviction — unlike an ACD.
Real-Life Example
After pleading guilty to disorderly conduct, James received a conditional discharge: stay out of trouble for one year and complete 20 hours of community service. No probation officer, no reporting requirement. He completed the community service and had no further issues. A year later, his supervision ended.
Related Statutes
Related Terms
Source
Based on N.Y. Penal Law § 65.05. Original B-Legal plain-language explanation.
N.Y. Penal Law § 65.05
Definitions are simplified for education. Legal meanings vary by jurisdiction, context, and case facts. This definition is original B-Legal content and is not affiliated with or derived from any proprietary legal dictionary.