District Court Probation

The mission of the Probation Department is the enforcement of the Order of Probation, which entails a variety of conditions or requirements that the Judge has specifically ordered for an offender to complete or comply with. Probation Officers seek to accomplish this by working with the offender in referring them to appropriate agencies to receive counseling, assistance or support. The goal is to provide the person with opportunities for behavioral change and hold them accountable for making changes that are needed in their attitude, behavior or lifestyle.

Probation Officers also conduct pre-sentence investigations, alcohol and drug tests, and hold regular supervision meetings with each probationer to ensure that they are being held accountable. Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of probation results in a hearing in front of the Judge at which time other penalties, including jail time, may be imposed.

Positive Probation Experience

You should make your probation a priority. The more you commit to working with your Probation Officer the less likely you will find yourself violating the terms of your probation and possibly serving a jail term. Hopefully, probation will be an opportunity for you to make significant and positive enduring changes in your life, which will keep you from returning to the court system.

The following are a few suggestions that could assist you in having a successful probation experience:

• Take responsibility for your actions.
• Follow the terms of your probation.
• Maintain honesty with your Probation Officer.
• Arrive on time and avoid missing appointments.
• Keep your Probation Officer updated with any changes in your address, employment, phone number etc. and of any new legal involvement.
• Avoid associating with people who are a poor influence on you thereby tempting you to engage in further legal activity and behaviors.

Basic Terms of Probation

• Not to violate any criminal law of any unit of government.
• Not to leave the state without the permission of your Probation Officer.
• Make a truthful report to the Probation Officer as directed, either in person or by email.
• Notify your Probation Officer of any change of address, employment or new legal matters.
• Pay all fines, costs, fees as directed.

Note: Other terms will likely be included in your Order of Probation as determined by the Judge-you will receive a copy of your Order of Probation after you have signed your terms.