PC 1203.3
Ending probation early (PC 1203.3)
If you are still on probation you cannot petition for a dismissal yet. This is the motion that changes that, and it is the most under-used tool in this area.
What it does
The court terminates probation before its natural end date, which makes you immediately eligible to petition for a dismissal.
What it does not do
It does not clear the conviction by itself, and it does not wipe out money you still owe.
Every dismissal statute requires that you not be serving a sentence. Probation is a sentence. So someone two years into three years of probation, who has done everything asked of them and has a job offer contingent on a background check, is stuck — unless the probation ends early.
What actually persuades a judge
- Full compliance: classes completed, community service done, no violations
- A concrete reason the relief matters now — a job, a licence, a housing application, military enlistment
- A substantial portion of the term already served
- No new arrests
- The district attorney not opposing, which is worth finding out before filing
Buy it together with the dismissal
These are two motions and they are almost always wanted together: end probation, then dismiss. We take $150 off the pair, because it is genuinely less work than two separate engagements and there is no reason to price it as though it were not.
Who qualifies
- You are currently on California probation
- You have complied with the conditions the court imposed
- A meaningful part of the probation term has been served
Who does not
- Cases where probation has already ended, which do not need this
- Situations where conditions remain unfulfilled, though unpaid restitution is treated differently from unperformed conditions
The forms and how long it takes
No statewide Judicial Council form — this is a drafted motion
Usually faster than a dismissal, because it is a motion in an open case. Counties vary, and an outstanding victim restitution order can force a continuance.
Our flat fee for this is $699, all in, with the court filing fee included. See what that covers.
Common questions
How far into probation do I need to be?
There is no fixed fraction. Courts look at how much has been served alongside everything else. Being past the halfway point helps considerably; being a few months in rarely does.
Does the district attorney get a say?
Yes, they receive notice and can oppose. Finding out their position before filing is part of the work.
If it is denied, can I ask again?
Usually yes, later, with more time served. A denial at month fourteen is not a denial at month thirty.
Related relief
Legal information on this page was last checked against primary sources in October 2026. California law changes; if you are reading this long after that date, confirm before you rely on it.