Flying Debris

an example of how something as simple as a schedule conflict can quickly become unbelievably complicated because of probation.

I last reported to probation 2 months ago. My PO (probation officer) and I had good reason to believe I would be released from probation before my next appt. But- until the official release I had to remain in the appt roll. We penciled a time on the books with the understanding it was more of a paper trail thing and in the event my release didn’t happen - the time could be easily changed according to my schedule.

The release still hasn’t happened. It’s now time to report in again and I have a scheduling conflict. Shouldn’t be a big deal right?

Here’s where it gets complicated…

The local PO has been changed yet again. This appt is the first with the new PO, who knows zilch about any of the above.

Obviously your first interaction will set the tone of your future relationship. It’s never a good idea to reschedule the first meeting with a new PO because it’s usually assumed that you’re playing games or dodging them.

To avoid starting on the wrong foot, I have to page the previous PO (he’s not in his office this morning of course), wait by the phone for him to return my call, update him on the status of the release that hasn’t come through, ask him to call the new PO and explain all of the above so that I may reschedule without causing a rift, then call the new PO to reschedule.

Something so minor turned into one major pain in the ass hassle.

fucking ridiculous.

Tags: Annoyances //