How the Deferred Judgment and Sentencing Program works

Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, but for some individuals, there’s an opportunity to move forward without a permanent mark on their record. Mesa County’s Deferred Judgment and Sentencing Program offers a structured pathway for eligible individuals to fulfill court-ordered requirements and ultimately have their cases sealed.

Deferred judgment and sentencing is an agreement between an individual and the District Attorney’s Office, where defendants can enter a plea of guilty, and the sentence is deferred, allowing them to complete specific court-ordered stipulations instead of receiving an immediate conviction.

Stipulations typically include treatment classes related to the offense, Useful Public Service hours, court fines, and restitution. If the program is successfully completed, the case can be dismissed and sealed, providing a fresh start without the burden of a permanent criminal record.

This program is designed to help individuals:

• Fulfill legal requirements without immediate sentencing.
• Access necessary services, such as substance abuse treatment or anger management.
• Avoid a lasting criminal record if all stipulations are met.

The Deferred Judgment and Sentencing Program provides an alternative path for individuals to resolve their legal cases while addressing the root causes of their involvement in the system. Instead of going through traditional sentencing, participants receive support and resources to help them stay on track — without clogging the legal system with cases that may benefit more from services than punishment.

This program is a second chance to learn, grow, and move forward with a clean slate.

For more information, visit the Mesa County Criminal Justice Services’ webpage.