When you are on probation the most important job you have is to stay out of trouble. While it may seem like overkill, this may even mean not even getting a parking ticket! The problem with being charged with a new crime while on probation is that your probation could be revoked and you may be immediately taken to jail. Sort of like in the childhood game of Monopoly, “do not pass go, but go directly to jail!”. Because this is a likely outcome of a violation of probation, it is important to know how the system works.
Probation violations are governed by state statute. The typical steps of the process include the following:
● Your probation officer will submit paperwork outlining the details of the alleged violation.
● The Judge will review the documents submitted by the probation officer, and if satisfied a violation has occurred will issue an arrest warrant.
● The arrest warrant associated with a probation violation will not have a provision for bond, this means you will be taken to jail without an opportunity to post bail.
When arrested for a violation, you must immediately contact your attorney. Your attorney will contact the probation officer for details, and may be able to work out arrangements for you to “purge” yourself of the violation. This is especially true if the violation is a technicality rather than a new crime being committed. Making immediate contact shows you accept responsibility for the case and can go a long way in reaching a satisfactory resolution much quicker.
If you’ve been charged with a probation violation or have questions about how probation works, call an experienced criminal defense attorney. Skilled criminal defense attorneys in Stuart and the Treasure Coast are here to help. Your first visit is a free initial consultation.