Kate's Client Gets Stay of Adjudication, Avoids Registration Requirement

Kate’s client came to her after he was charged with several counts of Felony Possession of a Pornographic Work. Given the circumstances, Kate argued for a stay of adjudication, where the client pleads guilty to one count, but the judge does not accept the plea. The charge will ultimately be dismissed after the successful completion of probation. The prosecutor would not agree to this disposition outright and the decision was left up to the court. Kate made persuasive arguments, strongly advocating for her client to be given the opportunity to show the court that he can be successful on probation and highlighting that a conviction would be similar to that of a life sentence. If convicted, he would be required to register as a predatory offender, permanently impacting his life. He would never be eligible for expungement, and the conviction would remain on his record forever. Ultimately, the judge granted Kate's request to stay adjudication. Kate's client was relieved by this resolution, and he can now focus on his future without the concern that this offense will have a permanent effect on his life.