How do I request a Suspension of Sentence and Deferral of Final Disposition (“Deferred Disposition”)?
A.The procedures for a Suspension of Sentence and Deferral of Final Disposition, often called a “deferred disposition,” are found in Art. 45.051 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. The Justice of the Peace has the discretion to grant you this option. This procedure requires a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to the offense with which you are charged, and the payment of all court costs. You will be placed on probation for a period not to exceed 180 days, during which time you will be required to comply with certain specified conditions of probation. If you timely present satisfactory evidence that you have complied with the requirements of probation, the Justice of the Peace will dismiss the case and there is no final conviction. You may be required to pay a special expense not to exceed the amount of the fine that was originally assessed. If you do not timely present satisfactory evidence of compliance, the Justice of the Peace will impose the fine assessed which constitutes a fin
