We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Finance

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Factors Affect the Length of a Probation Period?

Autumn Rivers
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 12,931
Share

Probation is sometimes offered to convicted criminals in place of jail time, with the length of time varying depending on a few factors. Not surprisingly, the typical misdemeanor probation period is usually much shorter than the usual felony probation length of time. The criminal record of the person facing probation also usually plays a part in determining the probation period. Additionally, the judge can alter the probation length depending on specific details of each case, including recent behavior and the type of crime committed.

Misdemeanor convictions can often result in probation rather than jail time, though it is up to the court to approve or deny this option. Misdemeanors usually include child endangerment, DUI, domestic violence, petty theft, and drug use, to name a few crimes that qualify. In many cases involving these and other minor crimes, the probation period could last up to five years, though this maximum could vary depending on the area's laws. Most states have minimum and maximum sentences, and the exact probation length is usually dependent on how serious the crime is.

Felony convictions often require much longer probation periods than misdemeanors, with the maximum being life on probation for particularly serious crimes. The longest periods of supervised probation are usually reserved for the most violent crimes. In fact, in determining the appropriate probation period for a felony, the damage done to the victim is often considered. Of course, this often means that crimes without any discernible victims can be punished with less time on supervised probation than those that have one or more victims.

In cases that go to court, the judge usually has the final say in the details of the probation period, though the probation officer can usually make a recommendation for a certain length of time. Some crimes, however, come with required minimum and maximum sentences that the judge cannot alter. When making a decision, the judge usually factors in the offender's criminal record, taking the types of crimes committed in the past into consideration so that the chances of recidivism may be determined. The probation period may be shortened with good behavior, but typically at least one third of the sentence must be served, and any fines, community service, or classes must be completed before the supervised probation period can end. It should be noted that some states specify crimes that are not eligible for probation, such as sex crimes or kidnapping for example.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Autumn Rivers
By Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for WiseGeek, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon350986 — On Oct 09, 2013

No one will hire me. I have had two years of college and want to finish my degree but what is the point if no one will hire me due to misdemeanors. How can I can get them expunged?

I should not have 80 percent of the misdemeanors I have, but I didn't understand the law or have a good lawyer for three that I have for shoplifting. I am 42. I need help to get those off my record. Is it possible? I want to work and finish college,

I am a single mother with a child whose father is deceased. I am stuck living at home with my parents for the rest of my life if I can't get a job and get rid of these six misdemeanors that range for the time I was 21 until now. I am extremely depressed and want out of the welfare system that is barely enough to survive on, plus I am capable of finishing college and getting a degree. I already have two years of college.

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for WiseGeek, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-factors-affect-the-length-of-a-probation-period.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.