Violating probation: What to expect.

If you’ve violated probation and now face a possible conviction, you don’t deserve punishment due to an oversight or accident, regardless of why you’re serving probation. As your probation violation attorney, my number one priority will be convincing the judge not to inflict severe repercussions for a simple fault in judgment.

What can I expect from the probation violation process?

Although different than a normal criminal case, probation violations generally follow the same process:

  1. Your probation officer will inform the court that you have violated one or more probation requirements.
  2. The court will schedule a probation hearing and/or authorize a warrant for your arrest.
  3. If you’re arrested, there will be a hearing and a bond could be set.
  4. You’ll receive a Statement of Violations, where you’ll be informed of the terms of probation that you allegedly violated.
  5. You are entitled to a Probable Cause hearing to determine if there is a reasonable basis for the alleged violation.
  6. You are also entitled to an Evidentiary Hearing in which the State must prove that a violation did occur.

What are the possible consequences of violating probation?

  • Possible community service
  • Warning or modification of probation
  • Extended probation
  • Additional restrictions may be added to your probation, such as an earlier curfew.
  • Regular drug testing or ordered drug treatment
  • You could be ordered to attend classes or programs based on the offense (such as anger management).
  • Counseling with a therapist on a regular basis
  • You could be sentenced to serve time in jail

Whichever judge assigned the initial probation ruling will also be the judge determining the appropriate punishment for the violation. This is important to note, since they may feel they did the defendant a favor when worse consequences could have been originally dealt with. Because of this, the judge could decide a harsher punishment than is now necessary.

Having a skilled probation violation attorney is crucial when facing probation violation charges. We can help identify any mitigating factors, such as positive progress during probation, employment stability, or participation in rehabilitative programs, which may influence the court’s decision.

Nathan Akamine - Criminal defense lawyer
I’m Nathan Akamine,

I have 24+ years of defense experience and knowledge of the inner-workings of the criminal system gained as a former Prosecutor. I’ve handled thousands of cases and trials. My background allows me to pursue cutting-edge and creative defenses to criminal and OVI charges.

As your attorney, I will personally handle your case. Many firms have associates with minimal experience that handle client interaction. I limit my caseload to ensure full personal attention to each client – from initial case review to the matter’s resolution. In the courtroom and out, I will fight for your freedom, your future, and your reputation.

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