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Criminal Law · answered on camera

What Is The Purpose Of Probation?

Quick answer

What's the purpose of probation? To keep a 'hold' on someone without clogging the jails, explains Oakland attorney Andrew Dósa. It lets a person stay in the community—enjoying fresh air and freedom—while the court reminds them their conduct still has consequences. Terms typically run three to five years: three for most misdemeanors, five for most felonies.

Excerpt summaries from the video and transcripts · how we make them

Law updateNOTE — current law: In California, AB 1950 (effective January 2021) now caps most misdemeanor probation at one year and most felony probation at two years, replacing the older three- and five-year terms described here. Certain violent felonies, some financial crimes, and offenses with statutorily set probation lengths (e.g., some DUIs) are excepted.

Answered by Andrew Dósa · Oakland, CA

Highlights

0:53

— how probation keeps a 'hold' on someone outside of jail

1:36

— why it works as a jail substitute over a three-to-five-year term

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the purpose of probation?

To keep a 'hold' on someone without clogging the jails—it lets a person stay in the community while the court reminds them their conduct still has consequences.

How long does probation run?

Typically three to five years—three for most misdemeanors, five for most felonies—working as a jail substitute over that term.

→ Full interview on Attorneys.Media

Contact Andrew Dósa
Answered by

Andrew Dósa
The Law Offices of Andrew Dósa

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