If you are on probation in Pennsylvania, you will want to stay straight and narrow so that you do not violate your probation. Violating probation can cause unwanted consequences and could land you behind bars. To avoid violating your probation, it is essential to understand what is considered a probation violation.
For questions and advice about avoiding probation violations, reach out to a criminal defense attorney in West Chester, PA, today.
Two Types of Probation Violations
There are two types of probation violations in Pennsylvania. One is the technical violation. The other way to violate probation is to commit another crime.
It is in your best interest to avoid both. Descriptions of both violations are discussed below.
Technical Violations
Judges put into place terms and conditions for your probation. To qualify for probation, you must agree to these terms in order to stay out of jail. Listed below are some common stipulations you may encounter when on probation:
- Scheduled contact and meetings probation officer
- Submitting to periodic and random drug testing
- Notifying probation officer about residential or job changes
- Notifying the probation officer about leaving school or your job
- Mandatory drug and alcohol counseling or programs
- Paying fines and fees
- Making restitution
If any of these terms are violated, you could face the consequences and end up in jail because of it. Take care to follow the terms of your probation and avoid more serious penalties.
Committing Another Crime
Another parole violation is committing another crime. This will mean an immediate arrest and a return to jail. You will face a hearing within two days, according to Pennsylvania law. Your Chester County criminal defense attorney will accompany you to court to represent you in the proceedings.
The judge has several options concerning how your case will move forward. These are as follows:
- Revoke your probation and put you in jail
- Adding further restrictions to the terms of your probation
If you have been convicted of a crime and are on probation, even the smallest criminal offense can have an enormous impact on your life. The two crimes do not need to be related for this to be a problem. For instance, if you are on probation for a drug charge and are later arrested for a solicitation charge, it is considered a probation violation.
Speak to a Chester County Parole Violation Attorney Today
It is important to contact your criminal defense lawyer with Ciccarelli Law Offices as soon as you are arrested. We are here to defend you against the charges and to represent you at the parole violation hearing. Our aim is to ensure your rights are protected and that the impacts of your parole violation are minimized as much as possible.
Reach out today, and let us review your case. If you have a technical violation, we will devise a strategy to minimize its impact. If you have been arrested for another criminal offense, we will work to reduce its impact and negotiate new parole terms on your behalf.