New York CD versus New York ACD: What's the difference under the law?

New York CDs and ACDs are very similar alphabetically but are worlds apart in meaning.



Conditional discharges are the most common sentencing option across the board for anything from a non-criminal violation to a misdemeanor and occasionally even a felony level offense.



Adjournment in contemplation of dismissal is where the judge and prosecutor agree to set aside (delay), adjourn if you will your case while they (contemplate) think about dismissing it.



With a New York CD you are most definitely  convicted of something.

With a New York ACD you are most definitely NOT convicted of anything.



Both have terms and conditions.

Both have time periods to compete those terms, conditions, and/or obligations.



CDs are usually one year in duration but can be two years max.

ACDs are usually six months, and sometimes can be a year in duration.