Legal Status

Probation Levels for Youth in Care

While involved in the youth justice system, young people are assigned to Probation Levels 1, 1.5, or 2. Regardless of level, a Bridgeway Case Manager works closely with the young person and their parent or guardian to support compliance with court-ordered requirements and to monitor progress. Bridgeway is committed to helping each young person succeed, using evidence-based, trauma-responsive practices designed to promote positive outcomes.

Probation Level 1 typically means the young person remains in the home while working to meet all court-ordered expectations and requirements.

Probation Level 1.5 also allows the young person to remain at home but includes an increased level of supervision and monitoring. This generally involves two in-person contacts per week, along with phone contact on the remaining days. Youth on this level are also placed on a tether for electronic monitoring.

Probation Level 2 typically involves placement in a residential facility. The length of stay is determined by the nature of the offense, the services or treatment needs identified and ordered by the court, and the young person’s engagement and participation in the treatment program.

PROBATION LEVEL 1 AND 1.5

During Probation Levels 1 and 1.5, the child typically remains in the home /community with their parent(s) or guardian(s). If the treatment plan is followed and all requirements are met, this level typically lasts six to nine months; however, the jurist retains final authority regarding duration and conditions.

At Level 1, the probation worker must meet with the child in person at least once per week. At Level 1.5, the probation worker must meet with the child in person at least twice per week and maintain additional contact by phone.

While working with Bridgeway, the youth is expected to:

  • Follow laws and work toward safe, responsible decision-making
  • Attend school regularly and progress toward completion of each term
  • Participate in treatment and supportive services to address needs and build coping skills
  • Follow family expectations and support a respectful home environment
  • Engage in healthy, prosocial peer relationships
  • Participate in positive, structured activities that support growth and strengths
  • Cooperate with supervision and services that promote safety and accountability

Probation Level 2

During this level of probation, the youth resides in an out-of-home residential treatment facility. Placement is determined by the assessed security level and individualized treatment needs. The length of stay varies based on the youth’s progress in treatment and successful completion of program goals. However, the final determination regarding length of placement rests with the presiding jurist. The Case Manager is required to conduct at least one face-to-face meeting with the child each month.

While the child is in placement, aftercare planning is initiated in collaboration with parents or guardians to support a successful transition home. Gradual reintegration may include structured home passes as part of the child’s treatment plan. If these reintegration visits are successful and all program requirements are met, the Case Manager may petition the court to step the child down to Probation Level 1.5, which would allow the child to return home under continued supervision. In some cases, an additional out-of-home placement may be required as a step-down level of care to further support the child’s transition and continued progress before returning home.