What is probation? How is that different from deferred adjudication?
After a defendant is found guilt of a crime and sentenced, that defendant may be placed on probation either immediately or after serving a portion of the sentence. That means the person is released under community supervision. Conditions of the probation are explained and a probation officer is assigned. The probationer must meet with the probation officer as required, usually once or twice a month, and fulfill all obligations of the probation or will be charged with probation violation and placed back in custody.
Deferred adjudication is a type of probation, but in this case a judge delays a finding of guilt or punishment as long as the court’s conditions are meant by the defendant. If those conditions are met for as long as required, the charges against the defendant can be dismissed.
