Suspended sentence

A sentence of imprisonment of less than two years may be suspended, unless the criminal history of the offender or other circumstances require that the sentence of imprisonment be enforced at once. The court lays down the prison term and sets a probationary period of one to three years. If the convict does not commit offences during the probationary period, he or she is not imprisoned and the suspended sentence lapses. If the convict during the probationary period commits another offence punishable by imprisonment, also the earlier suspended sentence may be ordered to be served in prison.

In addition to suspended imprisonment an ancillary fine may be imposed. The ancillary fine must be paid and will not be reimbursed even if the earlier suspended sentence is later ordered to be served in prison. If the suspended sentence exceeds one year, an ancillary sanction of community service may be imposed.

Updated on 30 September 2008