Sarasota Probation Violation Lawyer

Sarasota Probation Violation Attorney

Probation violation is treated as a serious crime in Sarasota, Florida. If you have violated the terms of your probation, you could be facing significant penalties in addition to the ones already imposed. Even if your charge is the result of a misunderstanding, it is important to take the right steps to ensure your rights are protected. A Sarasota probation violation lawyer can help with that. For more comprehensive legal support, a compassionate Sarasota criminal defense lawyer can provide the expertise and assistance you need to navigate the complexities of your case.

One important factor to consider if you have been charged with probation violation is that time is of the essence. Once it has become apparent that you have violated your probation guidelines, steps will be taken quickly to penalize you for doing so. An experienced lawyer who understands the delicacy of such cases can work in a timely manner to make sure you receive fair legal treatment.

What Is a Probation Violation?

It’s possible that you have been charged with a probation violation, but have no idea why. It can be easy to mistakenly or unknowingly violate probationary terms because they are often strict. Probation officers are tasked with ensuring that an individual under probation adheres to the prescribed rules and may report a violation without you knowing.

There are various ways an individual may violate probation, and it depends on the particular rules you have been ascribed. Some examples of common violations include:

• Failing to pass a drug test.
• Failing to pay restitution/fines.
• Committing an additional crime.
• Failing to complete required community service.
• Failing to meet with a probation officer.
• Failing to appear in court when necessary.

Not everyone shares the same probation requirements, so some of the mentioned violations may not be relevant to your case. However, it is important to be aware of the requirements of your probation in order to avoid additional penalties for neglecting to comply with them.

Consequences of Probation Violation

If an individual is found guilty of a probation violation, the court could take numerous courses of action. Factors that may contribute to the penalties considered include the criminal record of the defendant, the nature of the violation, and the severity of the initial crime committed.

Examples of penalties for probation violation include but are not limited to the following:

• Revocation of probation
• Extension of probation
• Extension of required community service hours and duties
• Additional retribution fees

Defenses For Probation Violation Charges

There are many ways a lawyer may go about defending an individual charged with probation violation. An attorney will assess your case and determine how to move forward in your defense. Factors that may be considered include:

• Your state of mind. Were you able to reasonably and logically consider your actions?
• The circumstances surrounding the violation. Did you feel as though you had no other choice than to violate the probation agreements due to a safety concern or some other concern?
• The severity of the violation.
• The amount of probation time that has already been served. Leniency may be more likely if an individual is closer to the end of their sentencing.
• Actions of police officers. Did law enforcement respect and uphold your constitutional rights?

If an individual did not intentionally violate their probation, it is critical that the court is able to recognize and consider the relevant facts. For this reason, each individual is granted a probation hearing in which their side of the case is presented. This gives the judge an opportunity to consider the circumstances surrounding the violation that occurred.

FAQs

Q: How Do You Get a Probation Violation Dismissed?

A: There are various ways to get a probation violation dismissed. One way is by proving that the violation was unintentional. Defendants with a record of good behavior may be able to present facts that grant credibility to a claim like this. Another way is by proving that the circumstances were beyond your control and that you had no choice but to violate the terms. An experienced attorney can assess your case to determine which defense route is most beneficial.

Q: Can a Florida Probation Violation Be Dismissed?

A: Yes, a Florida probation violation can be dismissed. One way it may be dismissed is if the charge is based on non-credible evidence. Another reason a case may be dismissed is if the officer did not follow proper procedures in arresting or charging the defendant. To have your charge dismissed, a judge must decide that you were not guilty of violating your probation terms.

Q: Can You Go to Jail for Violating Probation?

A: In some cases, individuals who are convicted of violating their probation have their probation revoked, meaning that they must serve the remainder of their probation time in jail. In these instances, the time spent in jail will vary. Additionally, the court may modify the probation period to include up to 90 days in county jail. Various factors may be taken into consideration if the court modifies probation, such as previous criminal activity and the reason for the violation.

Q: What Are Common Violations of Probation?

A: There are numerous ways that individuals can violate their probation. Many probation requirements are specific to the individual, such as being required to maintain employment, having ongoing meetings with a probation officer, passing drug tests, community service, counseling and therapy, and educational classes. Intentionally failing to adhere to any term in a person’s probation requirements could lead to a probation violation charge.

Ruhl Law, P.A., Your Probation Violation Lawyer

If you or a loved one have been charged with a probation violation, it is important to act quickly. These cases are time-sensitive and require experienced legal attention as soon as possible. Florida prosecutors take probation violations seriously, meaning that you must take your case seriously, too. At Ruhl Law, P.A., our lawyers have handled many similar cases and are ready to defend you with both their knowledge and compassion.

Contact Ruhl Law, P.A. today to learn more about how we can help. We are here to support you during this time and answer any questions you may have.