Learn how Iowa’s deferred judgment program works, who qualifies, and how it can help you avoid a criminal conviction.
A criminal charge in Iowa can have serious consequences, but certain first-time offenders may be eligible for a deferred judgment, which allows you to avoid a formal conviction if you meet court requirements.
What Is a Deferred Judgment?
A deferred judgment is a sentencing option under Iowa Code § 907.3 that lets the court delay entering a conviction. Instead, you are placed on probation and may need to complete conditions such as:
- Community service
- Fines or restitution
- Counseling or treatment programs
If you successfully complete probation, the charge is dismissed, and you avoid a permanent conviction on your record.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends on the charge and your criminal history. Non-violent first-time offenses, including certain OWI or drug possession cases, may qualify. It is ultimately in the judge’s discretion whether to permit a deferred judgment, and judges frequently assess whether the defendant’s conduct was aberrant in the sense that it was a one-time exercise of poor judgment.
Deferred judgments can protect your future, but violating probation can result in the court entering the conviction and imposing the original sentence.
