Deferred Disposition

Requesting Deferred Disposition
You may request deferred disposition any time before your court date at the court window. It will also keep points from being assessed to your driver's license as required by the Texas Surcharge Program. Requests for deferred disposition must be made in person. The case is suspended for a period of time (between 1 to 180 days) set by the Judge. Fees are assessed as a penalty, to include a special expense fee as prescribed by the judge.

The judge may require additional conditions, such as no additional charges filed during the deferral period, alcohol/tobacco awareness classes, community service hours, submittal to counseling and/or anger management classes, or any other condition deemed reasonable by the Judge. Anyone under the age of 25 must complete a driver's safety course as a term of the probation if the offense is classified as a moving violation. If you comply with the court's order, the Judge will dismiss your case.

You may request deferred disposition any time before your court date at the window or you may see the judge on your scheduled court date.

* Deferred Disposition is granted at the Judge’s discretion and can only be approved by the Judge.
Requirements
In order to request deferred disposition, you will be required to do the following:
  • Appear on or before your initial appearance date
  • Enter a plea of guilty or no contest
  • Meet any additional conditions or requirements of the judge
  • Pay the court costs and special expense fee at the time of your request
  • Waive the right to have a trial before the judge or jury
Offenses Not Qualifying For Deferred Disposition
  • Anyone who holds a CDL at the time of the offense
  • Any traffic offense committed in a construction zone
  • Passing a school bus
  • Serious traffic violation as defined by the Transportation Code, which applies to drivers with a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
  • Speeding 25 mph over the limit or more

Note: As of September 1, 2003, you are not eligible for Deferred Disposition if you possess a Class A or B driver's license, even if you are in a personal vehicle (refer to Article 45.051 of the Texas Criminal Code).
Failure to Comply
If you fail to comply with the conditions or requirements as ordered by the judge, you will be required to appear before the court and show cause as to why you have failed to comply.

If you do not appear for the show cause hearing, a Capias Pro Fine warrant may be issued for your arrest. Failure to comply will also result in a conviction on your record and additional fees.