When a person pleads to a crime, they will sometimes be put on probation instead of receiving a jail sentence. Under a probationary arrangement, a person will be required to abide by certain rules as a way of avoiding jail time, such as meeting regularly with a probation officer, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, and obeying all laws. If a person violates these conditions, however, they can face serious consequences and sometimes be required to serve their original sentence.
How Can Probation Be Violated?
A person may be charged with violating their probation in connection with several types of acts. While the specifics will vary depending on the details of a person’s probationary agreement, charges of violating one’s probation will often result if a person willfully ignores or otherwise breaks the terms that were established in their court order. Certain offenses will bring a probationary period of only one year, while others can last for as long as five years.
Probation violation charges can stem from any of the following:
- Failing to appear in court
- Being arrested for another crime
- Failing to report to a probation officer
- Not paying any court-ordered fines or restitution
- Traveling to prohibited areas or crossing state lines
- Being caught in possession or under the influence of drugs
In the event that you should ever be accused of violating your probation, you may face a number of consequences depending on the alleged offense. Minor offenses may bring nothing more than a warning from your probation officer, while more serious offenses can cause you to be forced to appear in court for a formal probation violation hearing.
Depending on the judge’s findings, you may face any of the following penalties:
- Community service
- Mandatory alcohol or drug rehabilitation
- Mandatory counseling
- Expensive fines
- Increased probationary period
- Revocation of probation
- New criminal charges
Milwaukee Probation Violation Lawyer
If you have been accused of violating your probation, it is urgent you get in touch with a powerful criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to minimize your chances of serving serious consequences. At the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella, our knowledgeable Milwaukee probation violation attorney can represent you at your probation violation hearing and advocate for a favorable outcome on your behalf. To find out more about what our 20+ years of experience can do for you, contact our office online or call (414) 882-8382 today.