NCTJ Court Reporting Practice Exam

What happens under a conditional discharge?

1. The offender is free with no consequences

2. No punishment is imposed unless another crime is committed

3. The offender serves time in detention immediately

4. A suspended sentence is required

The correct answer is: No punishment is imposed unless another crime is committed

A conditional discharge allows an offender to avoid punishment, provided they do not commit another crime during a specified period. This means that if the individual complies with the terms of the discharge and remains law-abiding, there are no immediate penalties or consequences for the offense for which they were convicted. However, if the offender does commit another crime during this period, the conditional discharge can be revoked, and they may then face penalties for both the original offense and the new one. The focus is on providing the offender a chance to rehabilitate while still holding them accountable for their actions should they reoffend. The other options do not accurately describe a conditional discharge. For instance, it is not true that there are no consequences at all; rather, the potential for consequences arises if further offenses are committed. Conditional discharge does not necessitate immediate detention or a suspended sentence; instead, it allows the offender to remain free while under specific conditions.