Supervised Probation in Maryland

Supervised probation in Maryland is a common alternative to incarceration that allows individuals to remain in the community under the supervision of the Department of Parole and Probation. While probation can be an opportunity to avoid jail time, it often comes with strict conditions that must be followed.

Supervised probation is a period of supervision by the Department of Parole and Probation imposed by the court instead of, or following, incarceration.  The goal is to promote rehabilitation while still holding the individual accountable. The Department of Parole and Probation assigns an agent who ensures that the individual abides by court‑ordered conditions such as maintaining employment, attending counseling, staying within particular geographic boundaries, submitting to drug/alcohol testing, or avoiding further legal trouble. Violating any of these conditions, even minor ones, can lead to serious consequences.  A probation violation may occur if the individual fails to meet a condition, commits a new offense, or is otherwise deemed noncompliant. When this happens, the probation agent may file a Violation of Probation (VOP) petition with the court, which may result in revocation of the probation, an extended probation period, or continued probation with modified or stricter conditions.  The Court has broad discretion in these violations of probation cases, and the standard of proof is lower than in a criminal trial – meaning it is easier for the state to prove a probation violation.

In some cases, individuals who have successfully completed a substantial portion of their probation may request early termination. The court has the discretion to grant these requests if it finds the individual has met all conditions and poses a low risk of reoffending.