In cases where an individual is convicted of a criminal violation, a defense attorney may work to secure a probation sentence in lieu of a jail or prison sentence. While a probation sentence allows an individual to avoid spending time behind bars, an individual is still required to abide by a set of specific conditions and restrictions which cannot be overly punitive in nature.
Common conditions of a probation sentence may include submitting to drug or alcohol tests, meeting regularly with a probation officer, obeying the law, steering clear of certain people or places and abiding by any determined travel restrictions. In cases where an individual violates or is accused of violating the terms of his or her probation, a probation officer may report an individual to the courts and an individual will be required to appear before a judge at a probation violation hearing.
If a judge rules that an individual violated his or her probation, a sentence may be revoked and an individual could be sentenced to jail. It’s critical, therefore, that individuals who are accused of violating probation turn to a criminal defense attorney for assistance. An attorney will work to refute claims that an individual violated the terms of his or her probation and ultimately work to promote an individual’s best interests. In cases where an individual is convicted of violating the terms of his or her probation, an attorney can also take action to appeal a conviction.
Individuals who are serving out a probation sentence would be wise to adhere to any and all related conditions and restrictions. In cases where an individual violates or is accused of violating the terms of one’s probation, the stakes are high and it’s important to turn to criminal defense attorney for help.
Source: FindLaw.com, “Probation,” March 23, 2016
FindLaw.com, “Probation Violation,” March 23, 2016
