Probation Violations

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Probation is an alternative to jail time. It is designed to test the behavior of convicted offenders and their ability to become law abiding citizens of society. Probation usually requires the offender to adhere to specific conditions set by the court and usually includes supervision by a probation officer. It is important to follow the terms of probation because of the severe penalties imposed when the terms are broken. Terms of probation can include community service, counseling or drug and alcohol classes, periodic drug testing, and regular meetings with the probation officer.

When a judge grants probation, he or she will lay out a set of guidelines that you must follow and abide by at all times. If you follow all probationary guidelines set forth by the judge, you will be permitted to continue serving out your probation at home. However, if you commit a probation violation, the judge will summon you back to court and you could be sent to jail. Some probation offenses can include the following:

• Failure to check in with probation officer
• Failure to notify the probation officer of any change of address
• Possession of illegal drugs
• Failing a drug test
• Possession of weapons
• Failure to appear in court when scheduled for a progress report
• Driving a vehicle while intoxicated
• Getting arrested for an additional crime
• Associating with other criminal offenders
• Failure to remain within the jurisdiction of the court
• Tampering with an electronic monitoring device

The terms of your probation are mandatory, and you must abide by these rules at all times. If you have committed a probation violation, a judge will issue a bench warrant in your name, the court may decide to revoke your probation altogether. You may even be sent back to jail.

If the judge determines that you did violate your probation, you may face very serious consequences. Penalties include more prison time that may even exceed the original sentence for which they were on probation. The prosecutor will also make a recommendation to the court on the probation violation, and this may further compound your peril. As a skilled criminal defense attorney, I can prepare you for the hearing and can make a huge difference in the final outcome.

If you have committed a probation violation, it’s crucial that you contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away. The Law Office of Scott Levy will fight to defend you against any and all charges against you, including allegations of a probation violation. If you need an experienced probation violation attorney to defend you in a probation hearing, we can help you. Do not let a probation violation jeopardize your freedom!