A deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) is an agreed arrangement between a prosecutor and a person or entity (defendant) to resolve an allegation of wrongdoing that might otherwise be prosecuted as a criminal offense (crime).

A DPA is unlike a plea bargain, a sentence of probation, or a sentence of deferred adjudication, because in those instances the defendant is convicted of a crime—but a person or entity who enters a DPA is not convicted of a crime and the result may be dismissal of the charges.

In Michigan, a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) is a tool that prosecutors may use to resolve certain criminal allegations without proceeding to trial. Under a DPA, the prosecutor agrees to grant a period of supervision, similar to probation, during which the defendant must meet specific conditions, such as paying restitution, undergoing treatment, or performing community service. If the defendant successfully fulfills these conditions, the charges may be dismissed, meaning the defendant avoids a criminal conviction. DPAs are particularly useful in cases where the defendant is a first-time offender, or where there are special circumstances that suggest prosecution may not be the best course of action. It's important to note that the availability and specific terms of DPAs can vary by jurisdiction within the state, and they are typically at the discretion of the prosecutor. Defendants interested in exploring this option should consult with an attorney to understand the potential implications and the process involved in their particular case.