Though they are both types of probation, there are significant differences between felony probation and misdemeanor probation. The first and most obvious difference is that a person who is convicted of a felony will face felony probation, while a person who is convicted of a misdemeanor will face misdemeanor probation – assuming either party is eligible for parole in the first place.
However, that is far from the only difference. Read on to learn the other four differences, and then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you require a free legal consultation from a criminal defense attorney.
- Misdemeanor Probation Does Not Involve Probation Reports
- One is Shorter than the Other
- Misdemeanor Probation Does Not Require a Probation Officer
- A Person on Misdemeanor Probation Has More Options to Travel
If you are on felony probation, you can expect that regular probation reports are going to be a part of your experience. This involves talking to a probation officer and then writing up the facts about your behavior while on probation. This is not something that a person on misdemeanor probation needs to worry about.
It is likely not surprising to learn that misdemeanor probation is shorter than felony probation. This is of course due to the fact that misdemeanors are considered lesser crimes than felonies and therefore come with lesser punishments.
Due to the fact that no probation reports are required for misdemeanor probation, no probation officer is required either. On the other hand, a person on felony probation is required to meet or check-in with a probation officer on a regular schedule.
While exceptions can sometimes be made, generally speaking a person on felony probation is not allowed to leave the state. In some cases, they might not be allowed to leave the county. This can significantly impair their ability to travel as they would like to. On the other hand, a person on misdemeanor probation can generally travel freely.
These Types of Probation Can Be Known by Other Names
If you are wondering about another type of probation, it might be that it is covered here but is simply under another name. For example, misdemeanor probation is also referred to as “summary probation.” Felony probation is also known as “formal probation.”
Both types of probation allow a convicted person to serve most (or sometimes all) of their sentence under court supervision instead of going to jail or prison. If you have additional questions about how probation works, contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 now to request a free legal consultation.
