Finding out that you don’t have to go to jail or prison when you are convicted of a crime is a good feeling; however, don’t mistake being let out on probation as being an easy way out. The probation program has a lot of rules that you must follow. In some cases, you can compare it to a slightly easier parole program.
You should be on your best behavior when you are on probation because getting into legal trouble can result in a violation. You will have a community supervision officer watching what you do. You must check in with them on a regular basis. For the duration of the program, you need to find ways to comply with the rules. This includes finding a job and keeping it. You also need a suitable place to live.
When you first enter probation, you will have a meeting with an officer at the probation office. They will go over all the rules. Be sure that you ask questions if you aren’t sure about what they are telling you to do. Failing to follow the rules means you are at risk of having a probation violation filed against you.
A probation violation requires you to stand before the judge to explain your actions. Unlike other criminal matters, you aren’t sent before a jury if you go to trial. Instead, the judge hears your case in a bench trial. We are here to help you learn about the options you have for these matters. You don’t have to face the court alone when we are working with you.