FAQs

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Probation

1. What are the rules for reporting to my Probation Officer?: You must report on the day and time your Probation Officer tells you to. If you have an emergency or illness that prevents you from keeping your appointment, call and speak directly to your Probation Officer or their Supervisor and get a new appointment.

2. What should I bring to my appointment with my Probation Officer?: • Photo ID (Driver License or State ID Card).
• Proof of where you live (utility bill, business mail, etc.).
• Proof of employment (pay stub, note from employer).
• Proof of changes, if any, to your name, address, phone, etc.
• Proof of any completed treatment, community service, restitution and charity contributions.

3. What if the weather is bad?: In the event of a blizzard or other weather emergency that renders the roads unsafe, you are to follow the rules set by the Sheriff’s department with respect to road travel. If the roads of the county remain open but you are unable to travel, call the Probation Department prior to your scheduled appointment time.

4. What should I NOT bring to my appointment with my Probation Officer?: You will be asked if you are carrying any weapons or prohibited items and you may be searched so you should not bring the following:
• Drugs and/or Paraphernalia
• Firearms
• Knives
• Box-Cutters
• Multi-Tools
• Aerosol Defense Sprays
• Any item Carried with the Intent to Bring Harm to Another Individual
• Any Weapons Determined to be Contraband, Dangerous, or Unnecessary
• Recording Devices or Camera Cell Phones ( All regular cell phones must be turned off)

5. Why is it important that I participate in treatment?: Your probation officer may refer you to a treatment program. There are many different types of treatment. These programs will help you improve your situation—they are not a punishment. However, failure to cooperate with treatment may result in a violation of probation. You may not want to go to treatment. This is normal. Programs require your time and effort. The most important first step for you is to attend. Once there, if you approach treatment as an opportunity, you will get the most out of it—give yourself the best chance for success.

6. Why do I have to sign a release of information?: It is necessary for you to sign the release of information so that your Probation Officer can verify information you have provided regarding specific programs and treatment as well as education, employment, special needs, etc. Your participation and/or completion of the same.

7. How can I get information about services in the community?: Cortland County residents can now dial 2-1-1 to find health care, services for seniors, programs for people with disabilities, mental health services, legal assistance, addiction treatment, employment, housing, food resources, consumer information, transportation, day care, youth programs, and other community services.

8. Am I responsible to pay for my treatment services?: You may have to pay for your treatment. In some instances third party funding (private insurance, Medicaid, etc) may be available to you. Some services also offer a sliding scale fee to eligible participants.

9. What do I do if I am arrested?: If you are arrested, charged with any offense, or have any police contact, contact your Probation Officer within 48 hours of the incident. You may do this in person or by telephone.

10. Can I travel to another state?: You may not travel or move out of state without permission from your Probation Officer and/or the Court.

11. Can I carry a firearm?: A Probationer convicted of a Felony offense or specific misdemeanor offenses may not carry a firearm. Please refer to your Orders and Conditions of Probation.

12. What is a Violation of Probation? (VOP): • When you fail to follow the conditions of your probation your actions may rise to the level of a violation of probation. (VOP)
• A VOP is a legal means to return you to Court to seek further action from the Judge. If you fail to follow any of your conditions or you get arrested, your Probation Officer may return your case to court.

13. Do I have to give a DNA sample: If you are notified by the Court to give a DNA sample, follow their instructions about who to contact for an appointment and where to go for the appointment. You will need to bring two forms of identification to the appointment. Your refusal to give a DNA sample is a Class A Misdemeanor and can be a violation of your probation.

14. Is there a fee for probation services?: There is a sliding fee charged for anyone sentenced to Probation for Driving While Intoxicated ( VTL 1192).

15. If I am placed on Probation, can I still vote?: Yes, you must be registered in the town in which you live.

16. What are my rights as a Probationer?: You have the right to be treated in a respectful and professional manner that is free of any form of harassment, bias or discrimination because of your race, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, place of birth, disability and political views.

17. What do I do if I feel my rights have been violated?: • First, talk to your Probation Officer and try to resolve your concerns.
• If you feel that you can’t resolve your concerns with your Probation Officer, ask to speak to their supervisor.
• If you still cannot resolve the problem you can call the Probation Director or Deputy Director
• Failing that, you may contact the NYS OPCA at 80 S. Swan Street, Albany, NY or call 518-485-7692
• Your probation will not be negatively affected just because you filed a complaint.
• Filing a complaint does not relieve you from your responsibilities to the court.