Discharge Without Conviction
Discharge Without Conviction is a sought after outcome and refers to cases where the offender has pleaded guilty or been found guilty of the offending but asks the court to not enter a conviction. The Court can then decide at their discretion whether to discharge you without conviction. It serves as a legal acquittal of your charges, otherwise known as a not-guilty verdict. For obvious reasons, this is a best-case scenario outcome, as your criminal record remains clean. A second chance to keep your record clean.
I have secured discharge without conviction for previous clients charged with:
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Frequently Asked Questions
The court ultimately decides whether or not you are eligible for discharge without conviction, and it is at their complete discretion. We can request it be considered. The court weighs up the seriousness of the offending compared to the consequences of conviction and if it is proportionate. If you are likely to lose your job if you are convicted, for example, for a non-serious crime, then you are likely to be eligible for consideration. Showing remorse is essential for being considered for this pardon; one-time actions may not have to hinder the rest of your life.
If you have had Police Diversion denied, or you have been granted Diversion in the past for a charge, then you can still be eligible for Discharge Without Conviction applications.