Probation is a delay in sentencing, called a deferred sentence or a suspension of serving your sentence, called a suspended sentence. You must be eligible for probation in order for it to be granted. Probation carries a heavy weight of terms and conditions, which should not be entered into lightly or without legal counsel. Probation affords you the opportunity to go about your life, while being required to perform certain conditions. Depending on the type of case, you case may be dismissed upon successfully completing probation.