Concept: Charge Disposition Outcome

Introduction

This concept contains information about a variable known as “DISP_TYPE” which provides information on the outcomes of each charge in the Manitoba Justice System. Outcome examples include if the charged individual had to pay a fine, was given probation, or if they were discharged without a criminal record. This variable is found in the Criminal Courts Automated Information Network (CCAIN) database using the Disposed Charge Outcomes dataset.

Definition and background information

A disposition means the “outcome” of a case (Source: Manitoba Courts Definitions website: Understanding Legal Words - Disposition definition - Accessed April 10, 2024).

There are two main types of outcomes: convictions and non-convictions.


• A conviction means the individual is found guilty of the crime they were accused of committing. Custodial sentences (jail time), probation, suspended sentences, and fines are considered “conviction dispositions.”
  
• A non-conviction means that the individual is legally innocent. Absolute discharges, acquittals, some conditional discharges, and charges that are withdrawn or stayed, are considered “non-conviction dispositions.”