What is the difference between a dismissal and a conviction?

The difference between a dismissal and a conviction in a drug crime law case in Alabama is an important one. A dismissal occurs when the judge or jury decides that the prosecution has not proven the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. When the defendant is found not guilty, their case is dismissed and they are free to go without any further penalty. A conviction, on the other hand, does in fact find the defendant guilty of the crime. The conviction typically follows a period of trial or plea bargaining. After a conviction is handed down, the court may order the defendant to pay a fine, serve time in jail, or do some type of community service. Generally, the judge will sentence the defendant based on the severity of the crime and any past criminal activity. In some cases, both a dismissal and a conviction may occur in the same trial. For instance, if the judge or jury finds the defendant guilty of some of the charges but not all, the judge will dismiss the remaining charges. In summary, a dismissal means that the defendant is found “not guilty” and a conviction means they are found “guilty” of the crime. A dismissal usually means the defendant is free to go without any penalty, while a conviction may result in a range of punishments.

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What is the difference between a dismissal and a conviction?

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