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.

Related FAQs

What is the burden of proof in a criminal trial?
What is the difference between an acquittal and a conviction?
What is the purpose of the DEA?
What is the role of the judge in a drug crime case?
What is the federal penalty for drug possession?
What is the difference between a plea and a plea bargain?
What is the difference between a plea of guilty and a plea of nolo contendere?
How is drug possession treated differently in different states?
What are the rules regarding the admissibility of evidence in a drug case?
What are the different classifications of drugs?

What is the difference between a dismissal and a conviction?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts