Probation Guide
Private Probation Services Near Me: What to Ask Before You Choose
If you are searching for private probation near you, start with one fact: in California, probation is generally run by county probation departments under court orders. Some courts allow private providers for certain services or supervision. Others do not. Local rules decide.
Quick answer
Can You Use Private Probation?
- Formal probation in California is generally supervised by the county probation department.
- Some courts may allow private providers for certain tasks, such as testing or monitoring.
- Whether a private option is allowed depends on the court, the county and your order.
- A private provider cannot replace or change court-ordered probation on its own.
Three different things
Public Probation, Private Supervision, and Support Services
Three lanes comparing government probation, private supervision and support services.
Public probation
- County department
- Court-ordered
- Reports to the court
Private supervision
- Only where allowed
- Limited tasks
- Varies by court
Support services
- Treatment, testing
- Records
- Do not supervise
Public probation
How Government Probation Works
A court may grant probation under Penal Code §1203 and set conditions under §1203.1. The county probation department usually supervises and reports to the court. See Court Probationary Services.
Private options
When Private Supervision May Be Allowed
Some courts let private companies handle certain tasks, like testing or electronic monitoring. Some do not. Rules can differ between counties and even between courtrooms.
A private company cannot create, end or change probation. The court order still controls.
Checklist
Questions to Ask Locally
- Does my court or probation officer allow a private provider for this task?
- Does the provider need to be on a local list?
- Who pays, and are fee waivers available?
- How will results reach the court, and who must authorize that?
- What happens if a test or report is missed?
Support
Support Services Are Not Supervision
Treatment, testing and record coordination can help you meet conditions. They do not replace supervision. Results are shared only when you authorize it. See Monitoring Services.
Legal note
Whether a private option is allowed is a local legal question. Ask your attorney or probation officer.
What ETS can and cannot do
Where Executive Treatment Solutions Fits
ETS is not a private probation company and does not supervise anyone. ETS can coordinate treatment, testing, monitoring and records, and share them when you authorize it.
Responsibilities
Who Does What?
Court
Grants probation and sets terms.
Probation department
Supervises and reports.
Defense counsel
Asks about local options.
ETS
Coordinates support services.
Questions
Private Probation Services: Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & Legal References
California law and courts
Confidential consultation
Support While You Meet Your Terms
ETS can coordinate support services while your attorney handles the case.
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