Probation Violations

Potential Consequences

Allegations of violating probation in Georgia could lead to being sent back to jail, extended supervision, and fines. A minor infraction may result in fines and some jail time. A major infraction will result in revocation of probation, return to jail for the full original sentence, and fines.

Having an experienced probation attorney on your side is the best way to protect your legal rights and personal freedom.

Probation Violation Defense

Probation allows a convicted individual to be released from jail before the entire sentence has been served. Violating probation terms is along the lines of breaking a good-faith commitment.

Probation allows convicted individuals to be released from jail for a specified amount of time. During the probation period there are strict requirements that must be met.

Violations of any probation requirements can be grounds to revoke the probation, and force a return to jail. Examples of common probation violations are: failing drug testing, missing meetings with your probation officer, new arrests, and failure to complete court-ordered programs.

Regardless of the reason or explanation, any violation can result in being arrested and being brought into court to settle the matter. An experienced probation violation defense lawyer can intervene and fight to help you avoid revocation of probation.

Technical vs. Substantive Violations

Probation violations are generally classified as Technical Violations or Substantive Violations.

Technical Violations

Failure to Report: Probation terms require regular contact with their probation officer. Failure to do so is a violation.

Failing Drug Test: Drug testing is a standard condition and failing a drug test (marijuana, illegal drugs, and controlled substances) is a violation.

Curfew Violation: Probation terms may include curfews. If you are caught being out after curfew that is a violation.

Travel Violation: Probation terms may restrict travel. Going outside of the approved areas, for any unapproved reason, is a clear violations.

Associating with Known Criminal: Probation terms may prohibit interaction between a probationer and any known criminal.

Failing to Maintain Residence / Employment: Probation terms may requires maintaining a stable residence and holding a job.

Failure to Pay Fines: Probation terms may require payment of restitution, fines, supervision fees, and other fees. All payments must be made in accordance with the parole terms.

Counseling/Classes/Service: Probation terms may require attendance of counseling or classes (Alcoholics Anonymous, anger management, etc.) or perform community service.

Substantive Violations

New Crimes: Any new arrest, misdemeanor or felony, can be cause to revoke probation.

Weapons Possession: Possession of a firearm, or dangerous weapons, such as brass knuckles, knives with blades over 4 inches, etc. are prohibited.

Regardless of the reason or explanation, any violation can result in being arrested and being brought into court to settle the matter. An experienced parolerobation violation defense lawyer can intervene on your behalf. They can fight to help you avoid revocation of probation.