Do You Need Help Getting Your Probation Term Shortened?

If you are on probation in California, you may be eligible to have your probationary period shortened. Learn more about AB 1950 and how it might apply to your case.

What does the law say? 

A new law effective January 1, 2021, significantly shortens the probation period for many misdemeanor and felony offenses. In addition to reducing the maximum period of probation, the law has several important aims including: 

  • Saving taxpayers money
  • Investing additional funds into programs to reduce recidivism 
  • Increasing additional funds for public safety programs 

Misdemeanors

Before this law, misdemeanor defendants could be placed on up to 3 years of probation, or more depending on the crime committed. Now, misdemeanor probation is capped at 1 year. There are exceptions to this new law. Certain offenses that come with a specific probationary term within its provision, such as Driving Under the Influence (DUI), will not be eligible for a shortened term. Domestic violence offenses will continue to have a minimum 3 year probationary period. 

Felonies 

Before this law, felony defendants could be placed on up to 5 years of probation, or more depending on the crime committed. Now, felony probation has a maximum term of 2 years. Again, there are several important exceptions to this new law. 

  • Offenses that have specific probationary terms within their provisions, such as DUI and Domestic Violence 
  • Violent felonies such as murder, mayhem, rape, sodomy, robbery, arson and kidnapping
  • Grand theft from an employee that exceeds $25,000
  • Embezzlement that exceeds $25,000
  • Theft by false pretenses/ false financial statements that exceeds $25,000

Schedule your free consultation today. Contact Criminal Defense Lawyer Joni Eisenstein.

Who does the law apply to? 

Even though AB 1950 comes into effect in 2021, there is good news for those who are currently on probation. The law applies to those defendants who have been sentenced to probation prior to January 1, 2021. Defendants who are serving a period of probation can ask the court to modify their term according to the new law. 

For example, if a defendant is currently serving 3 years of probation for a misdemeanor offense that is set to expire on March 1, 2023, the court can modify the term so that the probationary periods ends on March 1, 2021 (1 year probation for eligible misdemeanor offenses). 

Get Your Probation Shortened

If you are currently on probation, you probably already know that the legal system can be complicated, confusing and stressful for criminal defendants without the help of an experienced defense attorney. You also know that probation can seriously impact the way you live, work and interact with your community. 

For those who are on probation in California, you should contact the Law Office of Joni Eisenstein immediately. Our attorney specializes in helping defendants with misdemeanor and felony probation get their terms shortened according to the new law. She can assist you or your loved one with completing and submitting the necessary paperwork to process your request with the court. The sooner you act, the sooner you and your family can move forward after your conviction. 

Do you need help processing your shortened probation term in California? Call the Law Office of Joni Eisenstein today at 760-721-3161 to schedule your free consultation with our reputable and experienced attorney. She will guide you through the process and help you regain your freedom. 

If you are on the fence about hiring a defense attorney, stop thinking about it, and do it now

Hiring a criminal defense attorney like Joni Eisenstein can help you go from a place of uncertainty to freedom.