Ending Without A Conviction
Md. Code, Crim. Proc. § 6-220 — probation before judgment, and a discharge that is not a conviction
Probation before judgment. When a defendant pleads guilty or nolo contendere or is found guilty, the court may stay the entering of judgment, defer further proceedings, and place the defendant on probation before judgment, if the best interests of the defendant and the public welfare would be served and the defendant consents in writing.
On a not guilty plea. With the State's consent, a defendant who pleads not guilty may agree to probation in exchange for the court expressly withholding a finding of guilt, waiving trial and an appeal of the agreement.
Discharge. On fulfillment of the conditions, the court discharges the defendant from probation. The discharge is a final disposition, without judgment of conviction, and is not a conviction for any disqualification or disability imposed by law. On a violation, the court may enter judgment.
What it costs, and who cannot. By consenting to the stay, the defendant waives the right to appeal from the judgment of guilt, and the court explains that first. Certain impaired driving and related offenses are not eligible within 10 years of an earlier conviction or probation before judgment for one.
Whether a person qualifies, what conditions a court sets, and whether the record can later be sealed are questions for a licensed Maryland attorney. Sealing has its own page.
Sources for this section (1)
- Md. Code, Crim. Proc. § 6-220 — Probation before judgment
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Maryland attorney.