For many, being on probation is just as bad as jail time. Feeling like you are under a microscope and constantly have to look over your shoulder, almost any little thing may cause you to violate the terms of your probation. It is important to pay attention and understand every detail of the terms of your probation so that you do not violate and are at risk of having a warrant out for your arrest.
Several questions may come to mind, such as how many times is too many times, how much jail time will you face, and what is the likelihood of having your probation revoked now that you have violated it. These are all good questions and it is best to understand your rights and what is likely to happen to you now that there is a violation.
You may want to know what your probation officer is going to do. Sometimes warnings are given, but sometimes you are not so lucky and may be on your way to jail. Any wrong move and you may have violated your probation. This also means you have to watch your surroundings, even if you are not exactly involved.
If it gets to a point where you have already been arrested due to a violation, it is likely that you will be released on bond, but you will need to hire a criminal defense attorney, like one from The Lynch Law Group, immediately. If you happen to be convicted after your court appearance, which is called a revocation hearing, you may be required to pay fines, or do community service; with the right defense attorney, but it is ultimately up to the judge. If your probation is revoked, you are likely going to jail. However, your sentence will not exceed the original jail sentence listed in the terms of your probation, not even by a day.
Hiring the right defense attorney can make all of the difference in your case, so it is best not to quit on yourself. Speak with someone that has knowledge of the law and will know how to navigate in the courtroom and fight for you. An attorney with experience may not only have rapport with the judges, but also the probation officers and sheriff. Many law offices even offer free consultations also, if you or someone you know has violated their probation and is at risk of having their probation revoked, seek legal representation immediately.