It is not like you see in the movies, Probation Officers work with individuals to achieve goals, so that they can make a positive change in their life and find success; they strive to help probationers blend back in with society. Open communication with your Probation Officer is important; reach out if you have questions or concerns.
Probation is determined by the judge. If you are representing yourself, you may request that the court impose unsupervised probation at the time of sentencing. The final decision is up to the judge.
Supervised Probation: This is the most common form of probation. If an individual is placed on supervised probation, they have regular check-ins with their probation officer to help keep them on track and report progress to the Court.
Unsupervised Probation: Certain things need to be monitored, but monthly office visits, home visits, and urinanalysis testing is not required.
Courtesy Supervision: The individual is placed on probation in one county, but lives in another county within Arizona.
Interstate Compact: The individual is not an Arizona resident and was placed on probation in an Arizona county. With approval, their requirements are transferred and they will complete their probation terms in the state they live.
Intensive Probation: Monitoring day or night, 24-7. Mandatory, weekly, office visits where scheduled activities for the week are approved. Pay checks must also be submitted regularly for monitoring.
Community restitution is commonly referred to as "community service." It is when you work for free at a non-profit organization within your community. The Probation Officer can help you in finding a place, if necessary.
Every 6 months your Probation Officer will assist you in making a case plan. The plan will outline your goals, along with the strategies to achieve them. Once you have completed a goal you will need to show proof.
Yes. However, early termination from probation is possible only when you have complied with all of your conditions of probation, including paying all of your fines and fees. The final decision is always up to the judge.
An undesignated offense is considered a felony until successful completion of probation. If you complete court requirements and achieve your goals on probation, the court may designate the offense as a misdemeanor.
What if I am serving a jail sentence while on probation?
Depending on the length of your sentence, you may be assigned a probation officer who will review your Conditions of Probation with you, answer any questions you may have, and tell you when to report once released. You may have the opportunity to participate in counseling, and other programs while in custody. If you do not have an assigned Probation Officer you have 24 hours to report to the Probation Department once you are released from custody.