What is Conditional Discharge?
This program allows defendants charged with certain drug offenses to be placed on probation for a period of time determined by the court. It is a diversionary program for first-time offenders, which allows charges to be dismissed if the defendant successfully completes probation. The judge or probation department may require that the defendant get drug counseling, have random drug tests, or other conditions. To be eligible, a defendant must have: • Never been convicted of a drug offense in this State or any other State. • Never been granted a conditional discharge before. • Never received pre-trial intervention or pre-trial diversion in any State or Federal Court. The judge ultimately determines who is eligible for a conditional discharge. If granted, the defendant must pay mandatory assessments, and the judge may suspend his or her driving privileges. If the defendant complies with all conditions of the program, including satisfying all financial obligations, the charges will be dismi
