What Should You Do If You Have Violated Your Broward County Probation?

​Did you know that when you violate your probation, you are breaking the terms and conditions of your agreement? Are you aware of the many different ways a person can violate a probation including, but not limited to, failing to appear at a scheduled court date, not reporting to your probation officer when necessary, and not paying fines as ordered by the court? In addition, you may also be in violation if you visit certain places without the permission of your probation officer, commit another crime or get arrested for another offense. Be aware that probation is court-ordered and, as such, it is illegal to break the terms for any reason.
 
Now depending on the original offense, probation lengths can vary. Your Florida criminal law attorney will be able to help you understand how long your probation will be. Until the official conclusion of probation is issued, you are at risk of violating your probation if you are not careful.
 
Be mindful that each probation violation is different, this makes the potential impact quite broad and specific to your case. For example, your probation officer could issue a warning or require you to appear in court for a probation violation hearing. No matter what the circumstance is, you need to speak with your Florida criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. If you are requested to appear in court for a probation violation hearing, your penalty could potentially include jail time.
 
If you are found guilty of violating your probation, your sentencing could include extended probation time, imposing of additional probation terms, serving a brief amount of time in jail or revoking the probation all together and requiring you to serve the remaining time of your original sentence incarcerated. For example, if you violate your probation with six months left, you may be required to spend the remaining six months in jail.
 
If you do violate your probation, do you have any legal rights? Yes. You generally have the right to receive written notice of the claimed violations, be heard by a neutral judge, and be represented by your Florida criminal attorney who can present evidence to help your case. Do not wait to contact your attorney to have her guide you through the process and know that you understand your rights.
 
How serious the violation claims are can impact your violation of probation.  If you do find yourself in a probation violation situation, do not hesitate to call us. For more information, contact us today.
 
Do you have questions after reading this article? Contact Kristie Cohen Law for experience, integrity, and results. Our firm intentionally keeps its caseload small so we can give each client the time and personal attention they deserve. We are equipped to handle all cases from a misdemeanor to major felonies. We work diligently for each client to get them the best possible outcome in each case.