Probation is a period of court-ordered supervision, given in place of jail time or even following time served. During your probationary period, you will have to abide by certain rules. Break even one and you could be resentenced. If you’ve been accused of violating the terms of your probation, please read on, then contact an experienced Pensacola probation violation lawyer to learn what the consequences are for a probation violation in Florida.
What are the consequences for a probation violation in Florida?
A probation violation can carry serious consequences. It all depends on how many times, if any, you have previously violated the terms of your probation, and the severity of your alleged violations. A first-time probation violation, particularly one deemed minor, may result in an extension of your probationary period and the judge might require you to perform more community service hours or attend a rehabilitation program. However, if the judge decides that your probation violation is of a severe nature or you were convicted of a felony, the judge has the authority to revoke your probation and impose any penalty that could have been imposed on you for committing the initial crime. This resentencing could even net you up to a year in jail.
What are the most common probation violations in Florida?
Probation violations take many forms. The most common are as follows:
- Missing regular visits with an assigned probation officer
- Nonattendance of court-ordered drug or alcohol treatment, or special classes
- Failing periodic drug tests
- Unemployment
- Going outside a designated geographic area
- Breaking curfew
- Nonpayment of fines or restitution
- Refusing to submit to a warrantless search
- Failure to register as a sex offender, if your crime was sexual
- Not installing an interlock device on your vehicle, if you’ve had multiple DUI convictions
- Not completing community service
- Associating with criminals or being in crime-ridden areas
- Possession of weapons
- Committing any other crimes or infractions
How can a Florida probation violation lawyer help you?
As indicated, probation violations are not limited to the actions listed above. There are countless other conditions, including ones specific to your unique case, that you might not even be aware of. Furthermore, many of these conditions might be needlessly or unrealistically restrictive. Reaching out to a skilled Escambia County criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference between you receiving a warning and serving a lengthy prison sentence.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENSACOLA FIRM
For decades, the Law Office of James M. Burns has helped countless people through a wide array of legal issues, including those involving criminal law, family law, personal injury law, and will & probate law. If require the assistance of a competent legal team that can effectively guide you through each phase of your legal matter, you’ve come to the right place. Contact the Law Office of James M. Burns today to schedule your initial consultation.
