If you have decided to take an offer of probation in order to avoid going to jail while also resolving criminal charges against you, you must take special care to follow all of the rules if you expect a good result. The Court will expect you to know what you are allowed to do, and what you are not allowed to do while on probation. If you do not understand any of the terms of your probation, you will not be given a “free pass” for that misunderstanding and the results can be quite harsh. But it is not always clear what the rules are, so before you take an offer of probation to resolve your case, be sure to get an explanation of the terms.

The three most common violations of probation, and thus the three best ways to commit a violation are:

  • Being arrested for a new crime. This is the number one no-no when on probation, and most people will tell you to avoid even a minor traffic ticket while you are on probation. If you get arrest for something new before your probation is up, you will be charged with that new crime and also with violating your probation. This is like a double whammy and requires a strong defense to resolve.
  • Failing to pay costs and fines when they are due. We understand that money can be tight, but if you decide to skip out on a court cost payment you can be found to have violated the terms of your probation.
  • Skipping out on the requirement to attend court ordered rehabilitation or other programs. It is common in cases that involve drinking and driving, like a DUI, to be required to go to driving school. If you decide not to go, you will not be given the required certificate of completion needed to meet the terms of your probation. The best idea is to schedule attendance at these types of schools and programs as soon as possible, so you don’t get in a time crunch too near the end of your probationary term. Once you complete these courses you will have one less thing on your plate and can focus on what is left to be done.

Our approach is to work with you for a full understanding of the terms of your probation. If you are not clear, we will give a satisfactory explanation. If you do not think a particular term is manageable, we need to know as soon as possible so other options can be explored.

For answers to questions about how to stay on track with probation or how to best defend a violation, call an experienced criminal defense attorney today. Skilled criminal defense attorneys in Stuart and the Treasure Coast are here to help you reach workable solutions. Your first visit is a free initial consultation.