I Was Arrested for a Probation Violation. What Now?
According to Chapter 948 of the Florida Statutes, a criminal offender may be granted probation in lieu of a sentence. As part of this arrangement, the individual must maintain contact with a community supervision, parole, or probation officer and abide by certain court-ordered conditions, such as paying restitution, performing community service, or other terms. In Florida, a person can face punishment for willfully and substantially violating the terms of their probation.
The consequences of a probation violation depend on a number of factors, including the nature and seriousness of the violation, whether the offender has other violations, and more. If the offender is found guilty of a probation violation, they may face jail time, fines, or extended probation.
Probation violations typically occur when a person refuses, ignores, avoids, or otherwise breaks the terms and conditions of their probation during their probation period.
Common examples of probation violations include:
- Failing to report to a probation officer
- Failing to show up to a scheduled court date
- Committing other crimes while on probation
- Possessing, selling, or using illegal drugs
- Traveling out of state or visiting certain people without permission
A probation officer may issue a warning to the offender or schedule a court date for a probation violation hearing. During the hearing, a prosecutor will take into account the severity of the offense, the history of other probation violations, and other mitigating or aggregating circumstances when making a case against the offender.
Accused of Violating Your Probation? Know Your Rights!
If you have been accused of a probation violation, it is important that you understand your rights so that you can potentially avoid maximum penalties.
Generally, you have the following rights:
- To receive written notice of the accusation
- To have your case heard by a neutral judge in court
- To retain legal counsel
- To present witnesses and evidence to support your case or refute evidence brought against you
Don’t face a probation violation hearing alone. If you have received notice of an upcoming hearing regarding a violation of your probation, the first thing you should do is to get in touch with an attorney. A West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer at Perlet & Shiner, P.A. can provide you with the experienced representation you need to potentially avoid jail time, fines, or an extension of your probation. Our top-rated firm is made up of former prosecutors who know every angle of criminal law. Backed by decades of legal experience, our trial-tested attorneys focus on providing clients with customized defense strategies for even the most complex cases. We are available 24/7, so schedule your initial case evaluation with our firm when you call (561) 721-0552.
