Adult Probation

Probation is one part of the Ramsey County Judicial System, and officers work closely with law enforcement, city and county attorneys, public defenders, courts, and correctional facilities. Before being ordered to probation, an individual has contact with at least one of these other entities.

Probation can last from one year to a lifetime, depending on the severity of the crime and the court’s sentence. Public safety is a primary goal in our work with the offender. Probation officers identify risks, and holds offender accountable for non-compliance with conditions of probation, targeting resources to offenders at high risk of re-offense.

Throughout the probation period, the probation officer strives to build a relationship with the offender which may help diminish the likelihood an offender will commit a new offense, while enhancing the ability of the offender to become a productive, law-abiding member of society.

The Probation Service Center (PSC) offers supervision services to adults placed on probation in Ramsey County. 

To learn about services or make a report, visit the Probation Service Center (PSC) page. 

Can I leave the state?

If you are on felony probation, you must obtain permission and a travel permit from your probation officer to leave Minnesota. If you’re on misdemeanor/gross misdemeanor supervision, a travel permit may also be necessary. A permanent move to another state may require transfer of supervision to an agent in the other state and permission of the new state. Consult your probation officer for more information.

Can I leave the country?

Probation cannot approve international travel. Consult with an attorney for more information.

Can I vote?

If you are convicted of a felony you lose the right to vote only while incarcerated for that offense. If you are not currently incarcerated for a felony offense, you may vote. Before you can vote on election day, you still need to register to vote. To register, you may complete a voter registration application online or complete a paper application and return it to the Office of the Secretary of State or to your county auditor. You may also register to vote in your polling place on election day. You will not be permitted to cast a ballot until you register to vote. The first time you appear at your polling place to cast a ballot, you may be required to provide proof of your current residence. (MN Statute 609.165)

Can I hold public office?

If you are convicted of a felony you lose the right to hold public office until court-ordered discharge from probation or the end of your sentence. At that time, your civil rights are restored, including the right to be elected to public office. (MN Statute 609.165)

Can I possess firearms or other weapons?

State and federal laws prohibit the possession or use of firearms by people convicted of certain offenses. Please talk to your attorney or the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office if you have questions about your particular situation. (MN Statute 609.165)

How do I get help with employment and housing?

If you have a criminal conviction, you may be restricted from certain jobs, such as those licensed by the Department of Human Services (MN Statute 245C). In addition, you may not be able to rent certain residential properties and/or may have other residence restrictions.

Law enforcement

• Ramsey County Sheriff
• Saint Paul Police Department

Attorneys

• Public Defender
• Ramsey County Attorney
• Saint Paul City Attorney
• 2^nd Judicial Court
• Court records
• Criminal Court
• Expunge your record

Secure facilities

• Adult Detention Center (jail)
• Minnesota Department of Corrections (prison)
• Ramsey County Correctional Facility (workhouse)

Community resources

• Project Remand
• Victim/witness services