If you have been arrested for a crime, you might be thinking about going on probation as a form of punishment. To be sure, probation is a popular way to resolve criminal cases and the number of people on probation grows daily. The benefit to you is that you get to stay out of jail, and the benefit to the prosecution is that they get to impose a punishment on you. The terms of probation are considered your punishment, and they can be hard to follow. But, if you are successful, you will enjoy the reward of the bargain you made, which typically includes either dismissal or reduction of the charges against you upon successful completion of probation.
But, staying on track can be hard, especially if you are not clear about the requirements. Here are the three most important things you can know about probation:
- Probation is not easy; it will require you to follow rules and regulations you probably prefer not to follow. But if you can stick with it, you will be happy with the end result.
- Probation will only keep you out of jail if you follow the terms set forth in your probationary plan. If you make a mistake, you are likely to have your probation revoked and ordered to spend some time behind bars.
- Probation is no joke! You have to be committed to performing as expected, and doing the things asked of you without procrastination. The sooner you start taking steps to fulfill the requirements of your probation, the sooner you will get certain things out of the way so you can focus on what is next. If you wait too long to start doing what is required of you, you might run out of time or find yourself scrambling to get things done.
We have helped many people negotiate manageable probationary terms, and can help you too. One of the more common cases where probation is a good fit is that of a first time DUI offense. If this is your situation, or if you have questions about another type of matter that requires criminal defense, call us today. Or, if you want help with a charge that you have violated your probation, call us for help.
For more information about probation violations, call an experienced defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast. We offer an initial consultation for no charge, and look forward to working with you.