What is a Withhold of Adjudication? A "Withhold" is a special sentence in which the judge orders probation but does not formally convict the defendant of a criminal offense. ... A withhold of adjudication is not a conviction. Therefore, the defendant avoids the negative consequences that result from a criminal conviction.

Does adjudication withheld show up on background checks?

Withheld adjudication can and will show up on a criminal background check. If you have a withheld adjudication against your name, you will have been arrested, charged with an offense, and appeared in court. All of this will be recorded on your file and will, therefore, show up on a criminal background check.

Is adjudication withheld the same as dismissed?

Does Adjudication Withheld Mean the Case Was Dismissed? If adjudication is withheld, that does not mean the case was dismissed. In this situation, the defendant either pleads guilty or no contest to the charges or was found guilty by a judge or jury.