Terms of probation?

Question

Can a PO change the terms of probation set forth by a court in Massachusetts simply on a whim of her own? I am on probation for a DUI, have completed 14 of 24 months without any violations, and was ordered by the judge to see my PO once every 30 days, yet, due to a personality clash only, the PO has been yanking my chain by having me now appear before her every 2 or three weeks depending on her mood. It is a three hour round trip by bus and foot to visit her in another county and I have already lost out on one job opportunity due to her erratic and ever changing scheduling of our meetings. She's a PO from hell. Pure evil. Help! :(

The order of "once every 30 days" was hand-written by the judge on the form that was given to me at the time I pleaded guilty. And, to the other poster, no, I am not looking for anyone's sympathy. Just want some clarification of the law. Thanks all!

Answer 1

The PO must adhere to the provisions of the probation. If you think that the PO had abused his authority, you can file a complaint against him or inform his superior so that appropriate action can be taken.

Answer 2

A PO cannot change the terms of probation set forth by the court. I am a PO and I frankly find it a little odd to thinnk that a judge would write in that you are to report only once every thirty days. In my state, the terms state that a probationer must report as directed, and I often have probationers report more often if they have problems such as drug use, failure to pay fees, etc.
That being said, if you have a document from the court stating that you are only required to report once every thirty days, I would encourage you to make a copy of it, and send it, along with a written complaint to the supervisor of your officer. Try to be objective in your letter, and not attack her personally.

Answer 3

Are you sure that your court order says "once every 30 days"? In Indiana, our standard terms are that the probationer is to meet with their probation officer once every 30 days, or more often if so ordered by the probation officer.

Have you asked your current probation officer if you could transfer your case to the county where you reside? It's possible that your resident county would do courtesy supervision of your case so that you don't have to travel so far for appointments. The sending county doesn't have to allow this, and the receiving county doesn't have to accept your case for supervision, however.

Answer 4

Taxpayers like u and your parents are paying your PO's salary.
U need to write the judge that ordered all this and explain the inconvenience your PO is putting u through and see if u can get exempted or get another PO.

Answer 5

Well, I would have sympathy for you, but you broke the law. I think it is one of the fitting punishments one should have to face. You aren't in jail. If I were you, I would be very thankful of that, and just suck it up. You won't be under the PO forever. . .

Answer 6

no. tell the judge about tyhe biotch