Probation
If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you may be granted Informal Probation, which is supervised by the court and not supervised by the Sacramento County Probation Department. If you are charged with a felony, you may be placed on formal probation, which is supervised by the Sacramento County Probation Department, and you are required to report to the Probation Department and your assigned Probation Officer.
Informal Probation
If you are ordered to complete Information Probation, you must obey and comply with all of the conditions ordered by the court. You do not have to report to a Probation Officer. Terms of your probation will include that you obey all laws and may also include an order to pay a fine, and/or serve jail time. The terms of your probation may also include specific orders such as attending classes, submitting to search and seizure by law enforcement, or being subject to certain restrictions.
What if you violate probation? If you fail to obey or comply with any of the conditions ordered, your probation can be revoked, and the Court may order additional jail time or modify the original conditions. A warrant can also be issued for your arrest.
Formal Probation
If you are ordered to complete Formal Probation, you must obey all of the conditions set out for you in the order, and you are required to report to the Sacramento County Probation Department.
You may be assigned a probation officer and must report and comply with all ordered conditions and the directives of the probation officer. Terms of your probation will include that you obey all laws and may also include paying a fine, and/or serving jail time. The terms of your probation will also include other specific conditions and restrictions depending on the crime committed. You may also be required to attend classes, submit to search and seizure by law enforcement, or be subject to certain restrictions.
What if you violate probation? If you fail to obey or comply with any of the conditions ordered, your probation can be revoked, and the court may order additional jail time or modify the original conditions. The court may also impose a county jail, prison, or state prison term. A warrant can also be issued for your arrest.
Successful Completion of Probation
If you successfully complete probation, you may be eligible for automatic conviction record relief pursuant to Penal Code section 1203.425 . Additionally, after the successful completion of the period of probation and if you are qualified, you may be eligible for expungement relief. Probationers convicted of certain offenses are not eligible for this relief. Refer to Penal Code Section 1203.4(b).
Early Termination or Modification of Probation Terms
If you feel your probation period should be ended early or certain conditions should be changed, talk to your attorney. Only a judicial officer can change any condition or term of your probation.