Section 5 of the Sentencing Code currently enables the courts to make a deferment order. Whether to make a deferment order is a matter for judicial discretion, considering the factors set out in the overarching sentencing guideline, Imposition of Community and Custodial Sentences. This Act extends the maximum deferment order period from 6 months to 12 months.
Legal background Part 1: Sentencing Deferment of sentence