A probation violation can come with serious consequences. Read on to learn more.
For some crimes, a person may get probation instead of more severe punishment such as jail time. Probation means that the person gets released back into the community and can pretty much live their life as normal. However, there are usually certain restrictions and conditions involved. These conditions often include meeting with a probation officer regularly, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, and not getting convicted of another crime.
When you do not abide by these laws and restrictions, you can be accused of a probation violation. A probation violation can come with serious consequences. One of the most common probation violations is drug use. Getting caught with drugs can result in a variety of consequences, depending on the circumstances involved.
Types of Probation Violations
Besides drug use, other common probation violations include:
- Not appearing in court
- Not attending required substance abuse treatment or counseling
- Not completing required community service
- Not paying required fines or court fees
- Traveling outside the community without permission from the probation officer
- Getting arrested for another crime
Possible Consequences
If you got caught with drugs or committed another type of probation violation, the consequences will vary, based on whether or not this was your first offense as well as the severity of the violation. Possible consequences include:
- Warning. If this was your first time violating probation, then you may be let go with just a warning. However, you will be punished more severely next time, so be careful.
- Fines. The court may order you to pay a fine for the probation violation. This money is paid to the court.
- Rehabilitation. Getting caught with drugs may require that you seek treatment in rehab. Otherwise, you could go to jail.
- Counseling. Counseling may be another option, especially if you are using drugs due to emotional or mental issues.
- Increased probation. Instead of sending you straight to jail, the judge may increase your probation period. The average probation is one to three years.
- Jail. In the worst case scenario, you may be sent to jail for a short period of time so that you can learn the consequences of your bad behavior.
However, keep in mind that drug-related violations are considered serious, so chances are high that you will receive one of the more severe penalties. This will ultimately depend on what your probation officer and the judge think is fair based on the situation.
Contact Our Travis County Defense Lawyers Today
While probation allows a person who has been convicted of a crime to be released back into the community, there are typically many restrictions involved. It is not a pass to freedom and needs to be taken seriously. Contact us today.