What is a sentence of imprisonment that deferred?

A deferred sentence is a sentence of imprisonment that is suspended, meaning the individual does not have to serve the time immediately. The judge might defer the sentence for a period of time, and if the individual meets certain conditions during that time, the sentence might be entirely dismissed.

Here are a few examples of sentences that are deferred:

* "The judge deferred the defendant's 5-year prison sentence for 3 years, on the condition that they complete drug rehabilitation and maintain a clean record."

* "After pleading guilty to DUI, the defendant was given a 6-month jail sentence that was deferred, but if they commit another crime within 2 years, they will have to serve the jail time."

Deferred sentences are often used in cases where the judge believes that the individual is capable of rehabilitation and does not pose a serious threat to public safety. It gives the individual an opportunity to prove themselves and avoid a prison sentence.