Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
suspended sentence
noun
/səˈspɛndɪd ˈsɛntəns/
Definition
A legal term referring to a court’s decision to delay the serving of a sentence for a criminal conviction, with the condition that the defendant fulfill certain requirements.
Examples
- The judge imposed a suspended sentence, allowing the defendant to remain free if they complied with probation.
- After completing community service, her suspended sentence was lifted.
- He received a suspended sentence instead of jail time due to his cooperation with law enforcement.
Meaning
It allows a person to avoid serving time in prison immediately, often under the condition of good behavior or completion of a rehabilitation program.
Synonyms
- Probationary sentence
- Conditional sentence
- Deferment of sentence
