When you are put on probation, you will usually find out the stipulations of your probation. The judge will have rules that you will need to follow to avoid getting into additional trouble with the law. These rules might include visiting with your probation officer regularly and staying off drugs. Random drug screenings are often performed during visits with the probation officer. If you are found to be in violation of probation, you could have to deal with several consequences.
Warnings for First-Time Offenses
If you have never violated probation before and this is your first time doing so, your probation officer might give you a stern warning. A probation officer would tell you the potential consequences you could face if you continue to violate probation.
Servicing the Community
It is possible for your probation officer to expect you to serve the community by lending a helping hand, whether it involves working at a local homeless shelter or picking up trash from the road. The services you provide are beneficial to the community and they will help you with getting on the right track.
Spending Time in Rehab
If you are in violation of your probation because you have used drugs or consumed alcohol when you were not supposed to, the probation officer can put in a recommendation for a rehab center. Staying at a rehab center could help you kick the habit, learn life skills, and overcome the addiction you currently have.
Receiving Professional Counseling
On some occasions, an individual may receive an order from their probation officer to start receiving professional counseling. These services can benefit those that struggle with mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder and depression.
Paying Fees
Some probation violators are expected to pay fees to the court. The fees would often get paid out to the victim of the crime that was committed in the first place.
Time in Jail
For severe violations or repeat violations, jail time is often a must. Those on probation would get sent back to jail for a set period.
Lengthier Probation Sentences
If a person continues to display bad behavior while they are on probation, the probation officer could decide to increase the length of the probation. It could go from one year to two years or more.
Additional Charges
When breaking the law while on probation, it is possible to have additional charges added on to your original case. These additional charges could result in you spending some extra time in jail and having your probation revoked.
Attending a Hearing for Violating Probation
Depending on the specific situation, someone who is on probation might need to attend a hearing for the violation. If you need to attend a violation of probation hearing, you will find out what types of violations your probation officer claims you have committed. When attending a hearing like this, you should hire an attorney to stand with you and represent you. Some probation officers try to get the judge to give individuals even more time behind bars because of their violations. Because you do not know what to expect, it is far better to have an attorney there with you.
Contact an Experienced Lansdale Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Charges in Pennsylvania
Were you arrested or charged with a crime in PA? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford have successfully represented clients charged with crimes in Colmar, Lansdale, Newtown and throughout Southeastern PA. Call 215-822-7575 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 2605 N. Broad St. Colmar, PA 18915 as well as an office located in Newtown, PA.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
