Probation Violations

If you are convicted or plead guilty to a felony, misdemeanor or ordinance violation, and the court determines that you are not likely again to engage in an offensive or criminal course of conduct, the court may place you on probation under the charge and supervision of a probation officer. During the term of your probation, you are subject to all of the conditions of probation imposed by the court. Some of the common conditions of probation are: 

  • Not violate any laws
  • Not leave the state without consent of the court
  • Reporting to a probation officer
  • Payment of fines, costs and fees
  • Community service
  • Restitution
  • Mental health or substance abuse counseling
  • Alternative incarceration programs

These are just some of the more common conditions. Judges have a great deal of discretion in determining the conditions of probation and some judges are known for the onerous conditions they impose upon their probationers. The harsher the conditions, the more likely a probationer is to fail. Regardless of your conditions of probation, appearing before your sentencing judge again for allegedly failing to abide by those conditions is a difficult proposition. From the judge's perspective you have been given a lenient sentence by being placed on probation and, despite their leniency, you have violated your probation. Moreover, depending upon the nature of your crime (for example, drunk driving), the judge may consider you a danger to the community. They have already taken a chance by giving youprobation. Why take another chance? 

That is where we come in. Regardless of your probation violation or your underlying offense, we have represented people in the very same situation. Most likely, many times before and probably before the very same judge you will be in front of. This experience allows us to develop a plan of action for you that will be most effective at avoiding jail. 

The way in which you handle the situation is going to depend on the nature of the violation. In some cases, the violation didn't actually occur and a hearing should be held. In most cases, however, the violation did occur and it requires action that will convince the judge that the violation was an isolated incident and that you are deserving of a second (or third) chance. Whether you need substance abuse\alcohol counseling, mental health treatment, anger management or any other type of counseling, we can help address your problem before entering court for your violation of probation hearing. 

Make no mistake: a violation of probation is a very serious situation. You need an experienced and effective criminal lawyer to help you avoid jail. We can provide you with the experience, knowledge and advocacy that may help you avoid incarceration.