> [!info] Prepared locally > Revised text and original picture are ready. WordPress save, rendered checks and publication remain to be verified. A **suspended sentence** is a criminal sentencing arrangement in which the court suspends either imposing a sentence or carrying out a sentence already imposed. The distinction matters. Suspension does not itself mean acquittal, dismissal of the conviction, or freedom from all court-ordered conditions. ## In California Family Law [Penal Code section 1203](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&sectionNum=1203.) distinguishes supervised [[Probation|probation]] and a conditional sentence without probation-officer supervision. Both involve suspension of imposition or execution of sentence and a conditional, revocable release. The actual judgment and probation order must be read to understand what was suspended and what conditions remain. The distinction can become important after a violation. [California Rules of Court, rule 4.435](https://courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index/four/rule4_435) distinguishes imposing a sentence after imposition was suspended from putting an already pronounced judgment into effect after execution was suspended, when supervision is revoked and terminated and the court orders commitment under the rule. In domestic-violence-related criminal cases covered by [Penal Code section 1203.097](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&sectionNum=1203.097.), probation includes specified protective and program requirements. The words “suspended sentence” should not be read as canceling an operative protective order or deciding the terms of a separate family-court custody order. ## Example A criminal court imposes a custody term but suspends its execution while placing the defendant on probation with conditions. The defendant is not immediately serving that suspended term, but the conditions still matter. A later probation violation may require further court action; the original judgment and governing law determine the consequences. ![[Files/OtherFiles/Suspended Sentence.jpg]]