In the context of court costs, what does "deferred adjudication" signify?

Deferred adjudication signifies that the court postpones the final decision on a case. This legal process allows the defendant to complete specific requirements, such as community service or probation, during which time the case is held in abeyance. If the defendant successfully fulfills these conditions, the court may ultimately dismiss the charges, resulting in no conviction. This arrangement often helps individuals avoid a formal conviction on their record. It is crucial to understand that while the case is put on hold, it does not imply an acquittal or a final judgment. Therefore, the notion of postponing the final decision is central to the understanding of deferred adjudication in the legal context.