If you were placed on probation, a judge likely ordered you to complete several requirements as part of that probation. A violation of probation means there are allegations you have not successfully met or completed those requirements. If you are found to be in violation of your probation, you could be ordered to serve the jail time that was stayed as part of your original sentence, or be required to meet additional requirements.
Typical probation violations include:
- Failing to complete community service
- Failing to report to serve jail or workhouse time
- Failing to pay a fine
- Failing to remaining law abiding by committing a new offense
- Failing to abstain from the use of alcohol or drugs
Violating these conditions means you will be ordered to return to court at a probation violation hearing. At that hearing, the allegations against you must be proved by clear and convincing evidence. You are entitled to have a hearing, where you can call witnesses on your behalf, and cross-examine the witnesses against you. You have the right to be represented by an attorney throughout the proceedings. Having a lawyer is your best defense. If you completed the requirement of your probation, we will thoroughly investigate the facts related to your situation and obtain documentation and other evidence to show you did complete your probation requirements. If you have not completed the requirements of your probation, we can work with you to complete what probation requires and to put your best foot forward. We will negotiate with your probation officer, the prosecutor and the judge to ensure that you can get back on track with life.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation at 763-421-6366.
Probation Violation Information & Guides
Penalties for probation violations depend on the original offense. Typically a person will have a certain period of time hanging over their heads while on probation and a violation could result in executing that jail time that was stayed by the court. In Misdemeanors, it can be up to 90 days, one year for gross misdemeanors, and felonies vary by charge.
What should I do?
At a first court appearance, the defendant will be required to admit or deny the allegation. If the allegation is admitted the court can impose penalties such as jail time, fines, and other penalties. A defendant can also deny the violation and have a hearing.