New Port Richey Probation Violation Lawyer
Probation is often a good way to resolve a criminal charge, as it allows accused individuals to avoid jail time. After being placed on probation, you will have to meet many court-ordered requirements and if you do not fulfill the terms of your probation, you will face serious consequences. Unfortunately, many people violate the terms of their probation unknowingly, or they are accused of a violation when they are not guilty of it. When this is the case, you need the help of our New Port Richey probation violation lawyer.
What is a Probation Violation in New Port Richey?
Probation involves many requirements and sometimes, it is all too easy to violate the terms of your probation unintentionally. A probation violation is essentially not meeting even just one of the requirements imposed upon you by the court. Common probation requirements are as follows:
- Adhering to a curfew
- Meeting with a probation officer regularly
- Continuation of employment
- Residing within a certain area
- Compliance with all laws
- Paying restitution for any loss caused by the initial criminal act
- Paying of fines and court costs
- Continued payment of child support
- Submitting to random drug and alcohol testing
- Completing a certain number of community service hours
- Mandatory attendance in certain classes, such as a substance abuse course
Violations can either be technical or substantive. A technical violation is one that would not be against the law if you were not on probation, such as failing to submit to a drug test. A substantive violation, on the other hand, is any violation of the law that would be illegal even if you were not on probation, such as driving while under the influence.
Penalties for Probation Violations in New Port Richey
Substantive violations are taken much more seriously than technical violations, but either can have serious penalties. After the violation has been committed, you will be arrested and will not have the opportunity to post bond or bail. You will also not have the right to a jury trial. Unlike in the initial trial, the protection does not have to prove you violated probation beyond a reasonable doubt. They must only show that you probably did, which is a far lower burden of proof.
If a judge finds that you did violate probation, there are three actions they can take. They can reinstate the probation, usually with stricter terms, or they can modify the probation sentence. In the worst scenarios, a judge may revoke probation, which could result in a conviction and possibly jail time.
Contact Our Probation Violation Lawyer in New Port Richey Today
Probation violations are taken very seriously by the courts and if a judge does not find in your favor, you face many harsh consequences. At King Law Group, our New Port Richey probation violation lawyer can provide the defense you need against these accusations so you can continue to retain your freedom and avoid jail or prison time. Call us today at 727-538-4265 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.