If you are out on probation in Nevada, it might be possible to shorten your probationary period.
Judges have considerable discretion to determine when probation ends. It is not unheard of for them to modify the terms upon a showing of good reason.
While there is no guarantee that Nevada courts will grant your request for early termination of probation, you can try the following tactics in an attempt to achieve a shorter probationary period:
1. Do Not Break the Rules
If you abide by the terms of your probation, the probability of a judge agreeing to end your probation early is higher.
Conversely, the judge may revoke your probation if you break the rules, such as by:
- failing a drug test,
- disregarding a “no contact” order,
- going out of state without permission, or
- otherwise violating the judicial order outlining what you may, may not, and have to do while on probation.
I always advise clients who receive probation to “wear a halo” and be mindful of any actions that could give the appearance of violating their probation. Judges love compliance, and they may reward yours with early termination.
2. Pay All Your Restitution On Time
Judges appreciate seeing restitution paid in full and early, as it demonstrates taking responsibility for one’s actions. Judges also like to see that the “victims” in your case are “made whole” as soon as possible.
The sooner you comply with any restitution order in full, the more likely the judge will consider granting early probation.
3. Demonstrate Going Above and Beyond
Even if the terms of your probation do not require you to attend counseling, do community service or undergo rehab, you may want to consider doing so. I know that judges always beam when I read off a list of good deeds and constructive measures my clients did on their own initiative.
In short, doing 110% demonstrates to the judge that you are taking your situation seriously, thereby deserving early termination of probation.
4. Wow Your Probation Officer
Although judges have the final say, they often defer to the probation officer’s opinion. Therefore, make sure to:
- be polite to your officer,
- do not act resentful or impatient,
- submit to any required searches or drug tests without complaining,
- never skip out on a meeting, and
- do not give the officer any reason to speak poorly of you to the judge.
If your P.O. is happy with your progress and has no complaints, chances are much higher that your judge will reward you with early termination of probation.
Additional Resources
For more in-depth information, refer to the following scholarly articles:
- Legal and Extralegal Factors Associated with Success on Misdemeanor Probation – Open Journal of Social Sciences.
- Fugitives from Justice: An Examination of Felony and Misdemeanor Probation Absconders in a Large Jurisdiction – Federal Probation.
- New Directions in Misdemeanor Probation – Judicature.
- Felony probation: A re-examination of public risk – American Journal of Criminal Justice.
- Probation and Felony Offenders – Federal Probation.
