According to the pamphlet they hand out per the program:

The Dane County First Offender Deferred Prosecution Program is one in which eligible persons can divert out of the formal criminal court process. Participants sign a contract by which they agree to attend classes, make restitution, engage in community restitution work, secure needed psychiatric, alcohol and or drug, vocational or other counseling and agree to take measures to assure they do not repeat their criminal behavior.

In return, the Dane County District Attorney's Office agrees not to proceed with prosecution.

Length of Contract- depends on the nature and seriousness of the offense, attitude, commitment and educational or counseling needs. Contracts average from 9 to 36 months.

Who is eligible- offenders who
1. have no previous criminal conviction or record (exceptions can be made)
2. 17 or older or waived from juvenile jurisdiction
3. Consent of Assistant District Attorney on the case
4. Accept responsibility for the offense
5. voluntarily agree to participate in the program.

What is the benefit to the offender?
An offender in the deferred prosecution program is not sentenced although a plea is usually entered. An offender enters the program voluntarily and if the offender completes the contract, the case is dismissed. Sample case results involving the first offender program in Madison, WI.