If you have been convicted of a crime, you may have been sentenced to probation. During a probation sentence, you are permitted to continue with your normal lifestyle, but under heavy restrictions and supervision from the court and your assigned probation officer. This is an alternative to spending time in jail, where you would have much fewer freedoms and be without the ability to be with your family and continue your career.
The restrictions placed upon you during your probation are known as your probation terms. Violating these terms is a criminal offense and could subject you to further penalties. If you are currently on probation or facing charges that could result in being sentenced to probation, it is important that you understand the Florida criminal process and how you could face additional charges for violating your probation (VOP).
Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer the moment you are accused of a crime to begin working on your case’s best defense. He or she will be able to provide you with quality legal advice through every step of your case’s progression and guide you through all of your legal options.
I Violated One or More of the Terms of My Probation but Did Not Commit a New Crime
As an individual on probation, it is your responsibility to follow all of the terms of your probation. This includes keeping a record of all your scheduled meetings with your probation officer and the court.
When you violate the terms of your probation without having committed a new crime, the violation may be considered to be a technical violation. This refers to any violations that are not criminal in nature but were conditions placed upon you at the disposition of your case. Some examples of technical probation violations include the following:
- Failure to complete court-ordered classes.
- Missing or appearing late to a court or probation officer meeting.
- Failure to pay court costs or fines.
- Changing your address without notifying the court.
If you are found guilty of this type of VOP (probation violation), you may face the penalties you faced for your original crime. The court may not impose new penalties or penalties in excess of those in place for your initial offense.
I Violated My Probation by Committing a New Crime
Committing a new crime while on probation is known as a substantive violation of the probation. This type of violation includes all new criminal offenses. If you are found guilty of substantive violation of your probation, you may face new criminal charges for the second crime. Depending on your previous punishment and criminal history, the court may extend your probation, sentence you to fines or jail time, or impose other penalties that are permitted by law.
Probation Violation VOP Attorney in Panama City
No matter the circumstances of your probation violation, you need legal advice from an attorney who understands the laws surrounding probation violation and the consequences you may face if you are found guilty. Contact a probation violation attorney in Panama City to discuss your legal options and work out the best solution for you and your case. The attorneys at The Morris Law Firm are available to speak with you any time of day, any day of the week at 850-257-5680, so call now if you need an attorney now.