185Conditional or absolute dischargeU.K.
(1)A conditional discharge is an order discharging the offender subject to the condition that he commits no service offence during a period specified in the order.
(2)The period specified in the order (“the period of conditional discharge”) must—
(a)begin with the date of the order; and
(b)not exceed the maximum period for the time being specified in [F1section 80(5) of the Sentencing Code] (maximum period of civilian conditional discharge).
(3)An absolute discharge is an order discharging the offender absolutely.
(4)Where by virtue of Schedule 3 a court sentences an offender by conditionally or absolutely discharging him, the sentence must not include any other punishment except a service compensation order [F2, deprivation order or driving disqualification order].
Textual Amendments
F1Words in s. 185(2)(b) substituted (1.12.2020) by Sentencing Act 2020 (c. 17), s. 416(1), Sch. 25 para. 13 (with s. 416(7), Sch. 27); S.I. 2020/1236, reg. 2
F2Words in s. 185(4) inserted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force) by Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 6 para. 9; S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f); S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C1S. 185 restricted (27.11.2024 until the end of the specified period on 26.11.2025 for E.W.) by Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (c. 17), ss. 39(7), 90(6); S.I. 2024/1191, regs. 1(2)(g), 2, 3(2)(c) (with reg. 4)
Commencement Information
I1S. 185 in force at 28.3.2009 for specified purposes by S.I. 2009/812, art. 3(a)(b) (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059)
I2S. 185 in force at 31.10.2009 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4