Hello,

In about a week I will be done with probation. For last couple of months, my PO has been active on my case meaning I have had more frequent visits, computer checked. I have been having sleepless nights as I haven't done anything and I would hate to go through anything again. Anyway my concerns are:

1) Can there be something filed during the last minutes of my probation?
2) I have been told that I will get a completion letter 1 1/2 month after my probation is over. Are they referring to just processing the letter or the actual probation time meaning an extension can be filed or something like that?
3) Can they file anything else such as probation violation or extension or anything after my probation date even though the letter will be after 1 1/2 months.
4) Am I going to be free from probation completely even thought I have restitution to pay which I don't mind but its things like traveling that bothers me.

I have been looking forward to complete so I can finally sleep good without having to look back all the time and worry.

Any help/advise is much appreciated.

PS: This was a federal case in California. I am actually on Supervised Release.

In my own exp of this I would say the following:

1. Can there be something filed during the last minutes of my probation? Yes, if you committed a crime of some sort and where still on probation/parole then you still have to abide by the guidelines and breaking the rules while on it you will get a violation of parole/probation as well as the charge. You don't have anything to worry about if you haven't done anything.

2. I have been told that I will get a completion letter 1 1/2 month after my probation is over. Are they referring to just processing the letter or the actual probation time meaning an extension can be filed or something like that? The 1 and half month thing is part of another test because 99.9% of the time most repeat offenders will get into trouble in a short time frame after getting off probation, Once they put a date on the letter then that's the date you were off probation... The letter of completion is stating that you are no longer on probation and have successfully completed it.

3. Can they file anything else such as probation violation or extension or anything after my probation date even though the letter will be after 1 1/2 months? Typically no, because once you are off probation your off there is no probation violation because you have completed it within the deadline they set. There is a catch though, IF you get into trouble a short time after you get off probation/parole then they will mention that you have just gotten off probation in court and it will not look so good, as if you have waited to get off probation to get into trouble again to avoid more charges. Not saying you will but if you did it would still be like you were on probation minus the probation violation. If there was a bond and you were arrested it would be very high and maybe not even a bond at all and the disposition or consequence for what you did will be more severe.

4. Am I going to be free from probation completely even thought I have restitution to pay which I don't mind but its things like traveling that bothers me.
Generally they won't release you from probation or parole if you have restitution to pay, that's how it is in Virginia but the law varies from state to state. If you have restitution you should pay it asap, but if it is a high amount or if your in a financial spot that would prevent you from paying it fast then it could be difference. If you are released from probation and have to pay restitution still then yes you are free from probation, just try to avoid anything at all that would bring you back to court because again, the more things you would have against you the worse you will look.


Trust me, I understand the good sleep thing, just avoid all trouble by all means and do what's right and you will be set. If your PO has said you are getting off then you must have been doing good in the first place and only clear skies and good days lie ahead. Good luck with everything and hope this info helps!

S D Bennett

I have 5 months left of fedural probation, my PO wants me to come in to her office for an assement what should I expect from this? Is it part of getting off probation?