If you are convicted of a crime, you may be sentenced to probation rather than jail time. It is also possible to serve a split sentence, during which half of your term is served in custody and half of your term is served on probation. While probation is a form of leniency that is highly sought after, violating its terms can result in harsh consequences.
Our Sarasota probation violation attorney at Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. knows how complicated the rules of probation can be. With experience, as both a prosecutor and a defender, attorney Erika Valcarcel can anticipate the prosecution’s strategy to craft a strong defense.
Call (941) 363-7900 to find out how you can avoid penalties if you’ve been accused of violating your probation.
Understanding Probation
If you are found guilty during Florida criminal proceedings, you may receive probation as part of your sentence. It may also be possible to be on probation after being released from jail or prison. Probation is a form of punishment that involves being heavily monitored, but not in custody. In exchange for this leniency, a person must follow certain rules and guidelines.
Rules that are commonly assigned during probation in Sarasota and Manatee counties include, but are not limited to:
- Regular meetings with a probation officer
- Mandatory drug, alcohol, or anger management counseling sessions during which your offense is discussed
- Being prohibited from communicating with known criminals
- Court-mandated community service
- Drug tests that can occur randomly
Consequences of Probation Violation
In the world of criminal justice, there are two main forms of violating probation. Technical violations normally involve breaking probation rules, whereas the other violation type is seen when a person commits a new crime while on probation. Common technical probation violations include the following:
- Failing a drug test
- Talking to criminals
- Missing meetings with a probation officer
- Failing to attend community service
- Missing counseling sessions
Depending on the severity of the violation, a probation officer may require the attendance of a court hearing. If there have been no previous violations, you may get off with a warning. In any other case, a punishment may be assigned. Common consequences for violating the rules of probation include, but are not limited to:
- Increasing the probation period length
- Jail time
- Hefty fines
- Probation being revoked
- Additional counseling sessions or community service hours
Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer Erika Valcarcel Can Help Protect Your Freedom
Probation can be complicated. With all of the rules associated with this punishment, it can be difficult to know which activities are allowed. An experienced Florida probation violation attorney at Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. understands that people accidentally violate probation or there may have been a confusing situation that resulted in allegations of your violation. With help from an experienced Sarasota criminal defense attorney, you could avoid additional sentencing in your criminal case. We will listen to your side of the story, ensuring we have all the facts before taking your case to court.
To find out how you can avoid the penalties of violating probation, call (941) 363-7900 today.
"Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. is the best you will find. Erika Valcarcel is completely honest and straightforward. She took a huge burden off my shoulders many times during difficult periods of my life knowing that she was doing everything that that could and should be done. Her knowledge is extensive and her advice has always been right on the mark. She is worth every penny of the fee she charges. You cannot go wrong securing her services."
Joni A. | Sarasota County
Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed in 10 Days
When a client was arrested for battery after an altercation with his girlfriend, he immediately contacted attorney Erika Valcarcel. The client was adamant that the entire situation was a misunderstanding, but nevertheless he was looking at a domestic violence conviction and potentially up to a year in jail. We acted fast on his behalf and discussed the situation with the State attorney’s office. We informed the prosecutor that our client's girlfriend did not want to proceed and highlighted the weaknesses in their case. Once they were aware of these developments, we successfully arranged to have the charges dismissed. This was all before our client's first court date and impressively all done within 10 days of the initial arrest.
