Let’s face it, no one wants to go to jail when they get in trouble. But the possibility is very real, unless you take action to find a way to “serve” your time outside the four walls of the prison. The most popular way to do this is to agree to go on probation if you have been arrested and charged with a crime. But, there are certain restrictions in place concerning eligibility to be placed on probation and what you have to do to say on probation. If you do qualify for probation, you will be expected to follow all of the terms of your probationary sentence. And, if you do not, you stand a good chance of having your probation revoked.
Two of the best reasons to follow the rules of probation include:
- Avoiding a probation violation charge, which is a new charge separate and apart from the charge that caused you to go on probation. If you are charged with violating probation, you have to defend that charge as well as the original charges against you. And, you may be made to face the full range of punishment for the original charge, which is probably not the case with your probation.
- You get the benefit of the bargain you made if you are successful while on probation, which means if you negotiated for a reduced charge after completing probation, that is what you will get. For most people, the idea that a more serious charge can be reduced to something less harmful is motivation enough to stay on track with their probation. It can be hard to follow all of the rules, but if you do, your reward is to receive the benefit of the agreement you made when negotiating your probationary terms.
We understand how difficult it can be to know what you can and cannot do while on probation, and that is why we are here to help. When we take on your case we make sure you fully understand all negotiations made on your behalf, and that you believe you can abide by the terms offered. If you are not sure you can meet all of the requirements, or there is one sticking point to what the prosecution is offering, we will work with you to come up with alternatives that work and fight to have those alternatives implemented into your probationary terms. For help with criminal matters, and to learn more about how probation can help you, call us today. Or, if you have been charged with a probation violation, contact our office for a solid defense.
For more information about probation, 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.