How to Get Probation Transferred to Another City

You must receive probation officer approval to transfer probation to another city.

A judge might determine it is in the best interests of all involved parties to place you on probation instead of sentencing you to prison. While on probation, you must abide by specific probation terms and conditions and may not move out of your city without prior approval from your current probation officer and the new probation department. In order to move, you must follow all probation terms along with specific procedures related to the transfer.

Things You'll Need

• Written letter from employer in new city
• Written confirmation of new residence

Instructions

1. Complete all court-ordered probation terms. For example, you will need to pay court fees and finish all community service hours. Keep all related documentation of your compliance. You will need to provide proof if there is a question.

2. Bring all written documentation to the probation officer, such as an offer of employment from your employer in another city, medical proof that you need to care for an ill relative and proof of living arrangements. List all the reasons why you need to move.

3. Wait for approval from all parties. This process might take some time as the transfer must be approved by your probation officer, his supervisor, the sentencing judge and the new receiving probation department.

4. Pay any costs associated with the transfer. These include administrative fees, transfer fees and other expenses.

5. If the court denies the transfer, ask your probation officer for more information. In most cases, you will be able to reapply for a transfer.

Tips & Warnings

• While a lawyer can help you with a transfer, you do not need one in every case. Some probation departments grant emergency travel permits for limited time periods to allow you to travel to the new jurisdiction prior to moving there. Plan in advance if you request a travel permit. Many jurisdictions frown upon granting these at the last minute.

• Check with your probation officer to ensure you have met all requirements before moving to another city. Some jurisdictions will allow you to move within your county or even state; others will not. Certain crimes, such as sex offenses, may not be eligible to move under any conditions.

References

• City of Renton (Washington): Probation
• Travis County (Texas) Adult Probation: Probationer Handbook
• Missouri Department of Corrections: Rules and Regulations Governing the Conditions of Probation, Parole and Conditional Release