Opinion ID: 1326341
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Suspending Imposition of a Sentence Versus Suspending a Sentence Imposed

Text: The initial problem with the majority opinion is its failure to understand the procedural distinctions between suspension of the imposition of sentence, and suspension of a sentence imposed. Failure to understand these procedural differences is the reason for the majority's unsound conclusion in this case. Suspension of imposition of sentence means that no sentence is imposed. Instead, the defendant is merely placed on probation. That is, the sentence is deferred and may never be imposed should the defendant successfully complete probation. In such a situation, should a defendant's probation subsequently be revoked, a sentencing hearing on the underlying conviction would then be required, and at that time the sentencing order will give a defendant credit for any time previously served in jail pending trial. By contrast, the suspension of a sentence imposed refers to the actual sentence. The sentence is actually imposed, but then the execution of the sentence is suspended and the defendant is placed on probation. In the latter situation, should a defendant's probation be revoked, no further sentencing hearing is required because the sentence has been previously imposed. [1] Trial courts generally defer granting credit for time served in jail pending trial when the trial court suspends imposition of a sentence. On the other hand, trial courts typically award a defendant credit for time served in jail pending trial when the court imposes a sentence, but then suspends it and places the defendant on probation. In the case currently before the Court, the trial court's order stated: It appearing to the satisfaction of the Court that the character of the defendant and circumstances of the case indicate that he is not likely again to commit crime and that the public good does not require that he be fined or imprisoned, the Court of its own motion doth suspend the imposition of sentence and doth release the defendant on probation. The order makes abundantly clear that the trial court did not impose a sentence. Because of the disposition reached, the trial court, in the proper exercise of its discretion, did not grant the defendant credit for time served in jail prior to his conviction. This deferment does not mean that the defendant has been denied credit for preconviction jail time. It simply means that, if the defendant's probation is never revoked, he will need no credit for time served. To the contrary, should his probation be revoked, he will be given credit for preconviction jail time at the sentencing hearing following his probation revocation.