District Court Probation

What is Probation?

Probation is a sentence granted by a Judge that allows the offender to live in the community under the supervision of a Probation Officer. Theoretically, this decision is made after careful study of the offender’s background, behavior, and potential for success. It is based on the philosophy that the rehabilitation of some of the offenders might be hampered by incarceration and will be supported and encouraged by supervised freedom.

Probation is a desirable disposition in appropriate cases because it maximizes the liberty of the offender while vindicating the authority of the law and protecting the public from further violations. Probation can positively advance the rehabilitation of the offender by continuing normal community contacts such as employment, education, counseling, etc. It can minimize the impact of conviction upon innocent dependents of the offender. Probation voids the negative effects of incarceration, which can severely complicate the offender’s reintegration into the community.

Mandatory Conditions of Probation

• Not to violate any criminal law of any unit of government.
• Not to leave the State of Michigan without the written consent of the Court.
• Make a truthful report to the Probation Officer as often as the Probation Officer may require.
• Notify the Probation Officer of any change of home address or change in employment status.
• Any other conditions ordered at time of sentencing.

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Pre-Sentence Interview

You have just been referred to the 53rd District Court’s Probation Department for a pre-sentence interview or a screening/assessment interview. This is an important appointment because the Probation Officer will be making recommendations to the Judge as to what type of sentencing you should receive for this conviction.

You will be given a notice with both your Probation Department appointment and the sentencing date/time. You must appear for the appointment promptly as scheduled by Probation.

• Wear proper attire. If you are late for the appointment, you will have to wait to see if the Probation Officer can fit you in during that working day. If he/she is unable to do so, you will be rescheduled and charged a $100 re-schedule fee.
• If you miss your appointment entirely, you will be charged the $100 re-schedule fee. The Judge may also order you held in the Livingston County Jail until the Probation Department can see you.
• Children are NOT allowed in the Probation Department. Please do not bring your children to the appointment.
• You will be receiving a questionnaire that needs to be filled out completely. If a question doesn’t apply to you, please write N/A (not applicable.)

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Reporting

At the first appointment, the Probation Officer reviews the Order of Probation (if not done at sentencing,) explains the defendant’s responsibilities, answers questions regarding the terms of probation and gives the defendant goals to be achieved by the next appointment. At each meeting with the Probation Officer, the defendant will discuss the progress of their probation and supply verification that all conditions of the Order of Probation are being met.

• Appear at your appointment promptly, as scheduled by Probation.
• Children are not allowed in the Probation Department. Please do not bring children to your appointment.
• Bring proof of your appointment with you.

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Forms & Documents

• PBT Verification Slip
• AA/NA Attendance Sheet
• Community Service Information

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Staff Contacts

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Local Agencies

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