I'm on Probation - Now What?

Leaving jail and all other legal troubles behind is something that you have been looking forward to for quite some time now, and now it’s finally happening. If you’re lucky you got some preparation before you got out, assuming you were in custody. But now, the Judge said that you’re on probation. What does that mean? What do I have to do?

Let’s start at the basics – what is probation? Probation is a suspended state prison or county jail sentence. In other words, instead of doing time in custody, you have been given an opportunity to go back to your community provided you follow some specific conditions. All probation sentences are different; however, there are some standard conditions that apply to most if not all persons placed on probation.

1 - You need to contact the Probation Department as soon as you are released from custody. If you are released after 5:00pm, please contact the Department the next day. We open our offices at 8:00am and close at 5:00pm. Main phone number is: (415) 553-1706.

2 - When you contact the Department you will need to provide our support staff with your full name and date of birth. If you have your court number, please provide it too. Our support staff will be able to give you the name and phone number of your assigned probation officer.

3 - Your probation officer will schedule an appointment to meet with you. Please, make sure to keep your appointment and be on time. If you cannot make your appointment, you must call the day before to re-schedule.

4 - Most likely than not the Court would have ordered for you to attend a counseling or rehabilitation program. You along with your officer will choose which programs better meet your needs. It is important that you contact the program and arrange for an intake session.

5 - Stay out of trouble! We know you’re facing a lot of challenges and difficulties getting your life back together, but if you need help or support, call your officer before you do something that put you back in jail.

Please remember that we are here to help you succeed. Every little thing you do towards successfully completing this grant of probation will continue to build further successes that will lead you to a healthier lifestyle and happier life.

Voter Registration Information and Online Registration can be found at The California Secretary of State Website: http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/elections_vr.htm

For more information about people with criminal convictions who can vote, go to:

Website: http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/new-voters/who-can-vote...