Probation is a sentencing alternative for people who have been convicted of misdemeanor or felony crimes that do not involve violence. It can last for one year or up to 5 years, depending on the crime and the judge’s assessment of the person.
When a defendant is placed on probation, they must make regular contact with their probation officer to ensure they are complying with the terms of their probation. They also must report any new offenses they commit to the court, and may be arrested if they do not follow their probation order.
If you are charged with violating your probation, it is important to hire an experienced Probation Attorney in Alexandria, Virginia who will fight for your rights and defend you in court. A lawyer can help you determine the merits of your case and can negotiate a favorable plea deal.
The penalties you face for a violation of probation vary from state to state. They are usually fines and other restitution amounts. They can also be jail time, if the violation was serious enough.
Violations are a common occurrence for people on probation and the courts often have strict rules about how they will be punished for them. The punishments you receive depend on the nature of your violation and what your probation terms were originally.
Missing a mandatory meeting with your probation officer after a few months of regular appointments may only result in a warning, while other violations could result in a jail sentence. A plethora of other situations, such as being found guilty of a new crime, can cause your probation to be revoked and you will need an experienced Alexandria Probation Attorney who can protect your rights.
It is essential to find an attorney who practices frequently in the court that your case is pending in so that they know the judge and prosecutor, and can advise you about what to expect as your case progresses. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you need an attorney who is familiar with the laws surrounding probation and who can help you avoid jail time and other harsh penalties.
An experienced Alexandria criminal defense attorney can handle all types of probation cases and will be able to assist you with the preparation you need for your hearings, including mitigating information, which can help reduce your sentences. A good lawyer will work hard to convince the court and the probation officers that your violation was not a willful act and that you have not committed any additional crimes.
Your attorney can fight to get you a suspended prison sentence instead of jail, which is the most common penalty for a first technical violation. In some instances, a second technical violation may not allow the court to send you to prison at all, and you will likely be allowed to serve your remaining probation term in the community.
If your case involves a new conviction, it is vital to find an attorney who knows how to present mitigating evidence in court. A skilled lawyer can use information like your employment history, education and the other factors that affect your life to show the judge that you have done your best to prevent another relapse.
