Asked 8/1/2016 – Houston, TX

I was arrested for DWI in Houston (Harris County) while on business. However, I live in New Orleans (Orleans Parish). This is my first DWI. I am fighting the charge. However, should I be convicted, I would prefer to pursue probation rather than jail time. If necessary, I would be willing to travel back to Houston monthly. However, it would be preferable to have my supervision transferred to New Orleans. I have had one person tell me it would not be possible. However, I read the interstate compact, and it seemed to imply that if I am residing in another state at the time of the probation being handed down, that it is possible under the terms of the interstate compact. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.

Answer

You probation can be transferred, but Louisiana must accept the transfer from Texas first. If you are sentenced to probation, the Harris County probation department would contact Orleans Parish, forward the conditions of probation and Orleans would decide if they agree to supervise those specific conditions.