Experienced Fort Myers Probation Violation Attorneys
A probation violation is something to take seriously. If you have violated your probation, then you could end up with a harsher sentence than you faced before. If you have been accused of new crimes, then you will need a criminal defense for both the new charge and the probation violation. An experienced Fort Myers probation violation attorney can help you get your probation reinstated or modified.
At Aiken & O’Halloran in Fort Meyers, we are criminal defense attorneys with decades of combined experience, and we represent clients throughout Fort Myers and southwest Florida. It is entirely possible that your probation violation may have been a technical mistake or misunderstanding. If that is the case, the sooner you get a probation violation lawyer, the faster your alleged violation can be resolved.
What Happens After You Violate Probation?
In the event that your probation officer discovers or suspects that you violated your probation, they can have you arrested and put in jail. The judge may or may not set a bond – that will depend on the judge’s discretion. At Aiken & O’Halloran, we are available 24/7 to discuss your probation violation case. As Fort Myers probation violations attorneys, we can represent you at your bond or probation revocation hearing. At this hearing, the gold will be protecting your freedom by attempting to prevent a probation revocation.
Common Probation Violations
Probation violations can range from minimal technical violations to serious violations for new offenses.
Common violations include:
- Moving without telling your probation officer
- Failing to report to a probation officer
- Failing to submit to a drug test
- Failing a drug test with a dirty urine specimen
- Failing to attend court-ordered drug/alcohol counseling
- Being charged with a new crime
- Failing to pay fines, court costs or restitution
It is important to take a probation violation seriously. We encourage you to contact us immediately if you have been informed that you have violated your probation.
What Is The Difference Between A Technical Probation Violation And A New Offenses?
A technical probation violation happens if you break one of the conditions spelled out in your probation. For example, if you miss a meeting with your probation officer, fail to complete community service hours or fail to pay your fine, those would be considered technical violations of your probation. None of these violations involve committing a new crime.
On the other hand, a new offense means that you have been accused of committing a new criminal act while on probation. This can include anything from a minor misdemeanor or driving under the influence (DUI) offense to a serious felony or violent crime. Technical violations often result in less severe consequences compared to new offenses, but both can lead to serious repercussions, including extended probation or even jail time. Consulting an experienced defense lawyer can help you understand the specific implications of your situation and guide you through the legal process.
What Steps Should You Take If You Violated Your Probation In Florida?
If you believe you have violated your probation in Florida, it is important to take the following steps:
- Gather evidence: Gather documentation and evidence to support your case. For example, get proof of your employment or community service hours.
- Attend hearings and meetings: It is important that you attend any scheduled court hearings and meetings with your probation officer. Missing these could worsen your situation.
- Be honest: Be honest with your lawyer about the details of your case. A probation violation attorney is on your side and they are there to help you navigate the legal system.
- Follow through: Lastly, follow any new instructions from your probation officer or the court to show that you are committed to complying with the terms of your probation.
Time is crucial in these situations. Your criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the nature of your violation and your potential consequences.
Contact A Fort Meyers Probation Violation Lawyer For Free
Did you violate your probation? If so, we offer free initial consultations. To schedule your free appointment with an experienced criminal defense attorney, call Aiken & O’Halloran at 239-955-6715 or complete our contact form. As probation and criminal defense lawyers, we represent clients throughout the Fort Myers area.