You have literally just left the courthouse. Instead of jail time, the judge said probation. Relief washes over you. Then the truth sinks in: what does this mean?
I recall the first day when I was explaining to a person who had never been in the court system what probation was. Their hands were shaking. And they continued to question the same thing: What if I mess up?
That fear makes sense. Being on probation is walking on thin ice.
What Is Probation Really?
The probation is a second chance with conditions. The court allows you to remain in your society rather than in jail. However, there are certain guidelines that you have to follow for a certain duration.
It’s not freedom. It’s supervised freedom.
Probation is given to most people for minor crimes or as a plea bargain. In some cases, it is used in place of prison time by the judges. During other instances, it follows a short jail sentence.
The length varies. Some people get six months. Others face several years. It will be based on your crime and criminal record.
Your Probation Officer: Friend or Foe?
Your probation officer (PO) becomes a massive part of your life. They are not there to make you fall, even though it happens to be so.
Their task is to watch your compliance and make you a success. Yes, they may take you to jail in case you break the terms. But the majority desire to see you do well.
You will see each other regularly, perhaps weekly initially, and monthly later on, assuming all goes well. Be honest with them. It is always bad when one lies.
The Rules You Must Follow
All probation cases come with conditions. Others are universal standards. Others are particular to you.
Typical requirements are:
- Turn in to your PO as expected.
- Remain within some geographic boundaries.
- Be employed or go to school.
- Pay fines, court expenses, and supervisory fees.
- Full hours of community service.
- Participate in counseling or treatment programs.
You might also face:
- Random alcohol or drug testing.
- Curfew restrictions
- No physical interactions with some individuals.
- Weapons prohibitions
- Internet or social media restrictions.
The rules are initially overwhelming. Write them down. Keep a copy with you. When in doubt, ask your PO.
What Counts as a Violation?
And this is where people fall. There are two kinds of violations, which include technical and new crimes.
Technical violations refer to the fact that the probation is violated without any new crime being committed. Examples:
- Missing a meeting with your PO.
- Failing a drug test
- Not paying the required fees
- Unauthorized departure of the county.
- Getting fired from your job
New crimes are self-evident, such as being arrested for any reason while on probation.
But this is what gets people caught: even little things can break probation. A speeding ticket may need to be reported. It might be a violation to move apartments without permission.
The system is not necessarily fair. One of my friends has broken the rules of probation on account of being late by ten minutes to a meeting due to a flat tire. Her PO was enlightened, but it was recorded.
Staying Compliant: Your Survival Guide
Create routines. Add PO meetings to your calendar. Have phone reminders on everything – payments, community service, court dates.
Budget for probation costs. Supervision fees add up. And so do drug tests and program expenses. Plan for these expenses.
Choose your friends carefully. Being around drug users or criminals puts you in danger. It’s harsh but true.
Be proactive about problems. Lost your job? Call your PO immediately. Can’t make a payment? Discuss it beforehand. The majority of the officers are communicative.
Document everything. Keep receipts for payments. Obtain completion certificates for courses. Make pictures of the work of community service.
When Things Go Wrong
Violations happen. Don’t panic.
Your PO has options. They may provide a warning of minor things. Severe offenses would require a trial.
In the event of a violation report, try to hire a lawyer. The court may alter your probation conditions, either increase them or cancel them.
At this moment, prison is a real option. Best Criminal Defense Attorneys for Felony Charges – Free Consultation
The Light at the End
Probation does end. Several individuals are successful in it and proceed with their lives. The trick is to be serious from the beginning. Complete Criminal Law Handbook: Your Guide to Understanding Criminal Justice
Yes, it’s restrictive. Yes, it’s stressful. But it beats jail time.
Keep your eyes on the prize. Every day that you obey it is also a day that steps nearer to real freedom.
Your future self will be grateful that you persevered.
