If you are on probation, it is because of a criminal conviction in your past. With a mark on your record already, you must strive to adhere to the terms of your probation order. Violating your probation in any way could lead to additional criminal penalties and complications in your life, including fines, incarceration and more.
It is in your interest to be closely familiar with the terms of your probation order. Even one simple mistake or an accidental violation could bring serious consequences.
Probation periods typically last from one to three years. During this time, there are certain things you will have to do or avoid altogether. You will also likely have to meet regularly with a probation officer who will keep track of your progress and activities.
What counts as a violation?
When you ignore terms, avoid doing specified things, or break any specific terms and conditions while you are still in your probationary period, you violate your probation order. Violations include:
- Not reporting to your probation officer at your scheduled time
- Failing to pay fines or make restitution as ordered
- Traveling out of state or seeing certain people without permission from the probation officer
- Failing to show up to mandatory court appearances
- Possessing, using, or selling illegal drugs
- Getting arrested for something while on probation
- Committing additional fines and offenses
What happens next?
If you violate the terms of your probation, you will face severe penalties. Some of the potential consequences that may come with a probation violation include:
- A warrant being issued requiring you to appear before a judge
- Having your probation term revoked and reinstated, requiring you to complete the entire original term
- Being revoked and reinstated on probation with additional terms, or a sanction like additional classes, community services hours, or even a jail or work release sentence
- Being revoked on probation and sentenced to jail, community corrections, or prison.
You have the right to legal representation during a hearing after violating your probation. You also have the right to know the specific violations and present witnesses to support your case.