AB 1950 New Law Reduces Length of Probationary Periods

In September 2020, a new law went into effect that considerably shortened the period of probation for most crimes.

Prior to AB 1950 most misdemeanors carried probation periods of 3-5 years, and most felonies had probationary periods for 5 years.  AB  1950 has changed all that.

Now for the most part the maximum probation period on a misdemeanor is 1 year.  For most felonies, the maximum probation period is 2 years.

The exception to the above rules is when the particular crime carries a specific probationary period, which is indicated in the law.

However, for those who are already on probation, and benefit from this law, it is not automatic that the probation period is diminished.  You must, in fact, petition the Court for a termination of your probation.

Should you be among those that are on probation, but benefit from this reduction of the length, please feel free to our criminal attorney, David Foos, at 916-779-3500, on via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  We are ready and willing to help you get off of probation.