Opinion ID: 846297
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: the meaning of successfully completed all conditions

Text: The question raised by the prosecutor is the meaning of the phrase: [t]he person has successfully completed all conditions of probation in MCL 750.224f(1)(c). Because it is a matter of statutory construction, we review it de novo. People v. Kimble, 470 Mich. 305, 308-309, 684 N.W.2d 669 (2004). Our goal is to give effect to the Legislature's intent. People v. Koonce, 466 Mich. 515, 518, 648 N.W.2d 153 (2002). To do so, we start with the language of the statute itself. When, as here, a statute does not contain internal definitions of terms used in it, we give the terms their common, ordinary meaning. Under these circumstances, it can be helpful to consult dictionary definitions. Title Office, Inc. v. Van Buren Co. Treasurer, 469 Mich. 516, 522, 676 N.W.2d 207 (2004). The parties dispute the meaning of successfully in this statute. A Webster's dictionary defines the root word success as the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors. Random House Webster's College Dictionary (2001). Applying that definition, in order to be successful, a defendant must achieve a favorable termination of all conditions of probation. This is the only means of satisfying MCL 750.224f(1)(c). In this case, defendant did achieve a favorable termination. His probation conditions favorably terminated when the court unconditionally discharged him from probation. The judge left no lingering probation requirement for defendant to complete. He was free from court supervision without the obligation to report to a probation officer. Therefore, he successfully completed all conditions of probation. It seems obvious to me that a person has successfully completed all conditions of probation when there are no more conditions left to complete. Where, as here, the trial judge ascertained that defendant has complied with the terms and conditions of probation, there is nothing left for defendant to do. He has successfully complied with all of his legal obligations because no conditions remain. Where once there were five conditions to satisfy, now there is none. As well as being true to the meaning of the terms in MCL 750.224f(1), my interpretation is consistent with its structure. MCL 750.224f(1)(a) [1] and (1)(b) [2] both refer to specific, identifiable dates. MCL 750.224f(1)(a) describes the date when all fines have been paid. MCL 750.224f(1)(b) describes the date when all terms of imprisonment have been served. Thus, it would make sense for MCL 750.224f(1)(c) to be read as representing a similarly specific point in time: the date when a defendant is released from probation. The statute has a consistency of structure. This consistency suggests the interpretation that I have made.