Probation enables an offender to remain in the community after the conviction of a criminal offense, provided that they follow the regulations set by the court. Some conditions of the probation include reporting to a probation officer regularly, performing community service, restitution to their victim, not owning firearms, maintaining employment, and submitting to random drug tests or searches.
Even the violation of a single term can result in severe consequences for the offender. A New Jersey Probation Attorney can help you navigate through the legal process following a probation violation and help minimize or avoid any further punishment.
What happens if you violate your probation?
The probation sentence can be revoked if your probation officer has found that you have violated the rules. A hearing is carried out to determine whether the accusation is valid, and a revocation procedure along with additionally charged penalties is decided.
- A short period of jail time.
- Fines.
- The probation period is increased.
- Additional probation terms are set.
- Prison sentence.
Common examples of probation violations include loss of employment, failed drug tests, communication with criminal associates, committing another crime during probation, and not reporting to your officer. Appropriate punishment is decided based on the nature and severity of violations, the offender’s past behavior, and advice from the officer.
What do you need to do?
You have the right to have an attorney during your probation violation hearing. An attorney can benefit your case in several ways and help reduce your punishment or avoid them altogether. Additionally, they have helped several other probationers have a favorable outcome after their hearings.
How do they help?
- Advice: The legal process can be confusing, and the attorney can review your case and probation regulations to choose the best legal route. They are aware of each stage of the process and know what is required to have successful results and plan accordingly.
- Evidence: An attorney can help collect evidence and testimonies from witnesses to tilt the judge’s judgment in their client’s favor. They can help find weaknesses in the accusations and counter them accordingly.
- Protection: The federal and state laws regarding probation are complex, and the attorney ensures that the client is well informed of their rights and can freely exercise them.
A probation attorney effectively guides their client throughout the legal procedure to ensure that they do not face excessive additional charges. Probation violations can negatively impact your well-being in the future, and your attorney works dedicatedly for your case.