The mission of Adult Probation is to serve the court, reduce recidivism, facilitate positive change and promote community safety in Winnebago County. Probation officers are able to accomplish this mission through skilled and targeted supervision in collaboration with the court and community service providers. Probation officers also monitor court-ordered conditions which could be remedial (public service, restitution); punitive (incarceration, fines and court costs); or rehabilitative (counseling, community assistance programs).

Winnebago County Adult Probation supervised an average of 2,102 clients in 2025. Adult Probation employs a Deputy Director, four Supervisors, thirty-five Probation Officers, and five support staff. This division of Court Services consists of the following units:

·Intake Unit

·Inter/Intra-State Transfer Unit

·General Unit

·Presentence Investigation Unit

·Domestic Violence Unit

·Sex Offender Unit

·Problem-Solving Courts Programs with specialized Probation Unit

Winnebago County Adult Probation Officers utilize Illinois Probation Casework Standards, which consists of an intake process and case management. After being sentenced to probation, clients complete the Adult Risk Assessment (ARA) with a probation officer. The ARA tool identifies the client's problem/need areas, risk levels, barriers, and strengths. Following the completion of the ARA, the supervising officer provides feedback to the client by applying Core Correctional Practices and by developing an individualized case plan. Throughout a client's term of probation, officers utilize supervision strategies, which include following the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts' contact standards, behavioral change management, and structured sessions to reduce recidivism. Officers also adhere to the Risk, Need, Responsivity Model and incorporate Evidence Based Practices when working with clients.