Guidelines to Successful Completion of Probation

Success on probation means staying law-abiding, showing accountability, and demonstrating a commitment to change. Failing to comply with any of the terms can result in sanctions, extended probation, or incarceration.

1. Comply with All Terms of the Probation Order Follow all court-ordered conditions set by the judge. 
2. Maintain Regular Contact with Your Probation Officer (PO)
3. Stay Arrest-Free and Law-Abiding
4. Remain Drug- and Alcohol-Free (If Ordered)
5. Complete All Required Programs
6. Maintain Employment or Attend School
7. Avoid Travel Without Permission Stay within approved geographic areas.
8. Pay All Court-Ordered Fines, Fees, and Restitution
9. Do Not Possess Firearms or Weapons
10. Be Honest and Transparent

First Appointment 

Report to your Probation Officer within 72 hours of your release, unless stated differently on your court order. If that falls on a holiday or weekend you will report the day the office reopens.
What to bring to your first appointment:
Birth Certificate
California Driver License or California ID
Current address and phone number
Employer Information
If you do not have all of this information, have an idea or a plan as to when you will have it.

Success Starts in Custody

Should you be incarcerated while on supervision, this is your opportunity to begin your success story. Use this time to invest in yourself and your future.
Participate in programming that builds skills, confidence, and positive habits.
Engage in counseling, education, and employment services to prepare for life after release.
Connect with Inmate Services and Re-Entry programs for guidance and support.
Follow all OCSD rules and expectations to demonstrate responsibility and readiness for change.
Every choice you make now can bring you one step closer to a successful transition back into the community. Your success starts here.

Success in Re-Entry

Transitioning back into the community after custody can be challenging, but it’s a normal part of the re-entry process—and you don’t have to do it alone. There are people and resources ready to help you succeed. Here are some key steps to stay on track:
Follow all court and probation orders.
Report as directed and maintain regular contact with your probation officer.
Comply with supervision requirements, including testing when requested.
Stay organized by using a calendar or planner to keep appointments and deadlines.
Avoid negative influences—distance yourself from old friends or environments that could lead you off track.
Seek support by attending self-help or community meetings. Fellowship and connection are vital for lasting change.
Surround yourself with positive people who encourage your growth.
Communicate openly and ask questions. Staying connected helps you remain accountable.
Your supervision level will be reviewed every six months or sooner. Positive progress can lead to reduced supervision and lower probation costs. Remember: every decision you make after release moves you closer to independence and long-term success.

Probation Officer Commitment

Our Commitment to You: Helping You Succeed on Probation

As your Probation Officer, we’re here to support your success and help you make lasting, positive changes. Using Core Correctional Practices, we are committed to working with you—not against you.

Building a Respectful Relationship 

We treat every individual with dignity, honesty, and fairness. Our goal is to create a safe, professional space where you feel heard and supported.

Focusing on What Matters

We work with you to identify:

• Your risk level
• The needs that led to your involvement with the justice system
• The best ways to help you stay on track

Motivational Conversations

Through respectful, real conversations, we help you:

• Explore your reasons for change
• Set personal goals
• Build the confidence to reach them

Thinking for a Better Future

We use proven tools to help you:

• Recognize harmful thinking patterns
• Build new, positive habits
• Learn to make better choices

Life Skills & Support

We help you strengthen key life skills, like:

• Problem-solving
• Communication
• Job readiness and emotional control

Firm, Fair & Consistent

We set clear expectations and enforce rules with fairness. We use both incentives and sanctions to help guide your progress.

Connecting You to the Right Resources

We’ll link you with services in the community, including:

• Education & job programs
• Substance use treatment
• Counseling & support groups

Monitoring Progress & Celebrating Success

We regularly check in to:

• Track your growth
• Adjust your plan as needed
• Celebrate your achievements along the way

Leading by Example

We strive to be positive role models, demonstrating respect, responsibility, and a commitment to your success.

Your Journey, Our Support

We believe people can change—and we’re here to help you do just that. Together, we can build a safer community and a better future.