Probation is a privilege that allows a person to avoid jail time while still serving their sentence. However, violating probation can have serious consequences, including being sent to jail. Here are the top 5 ways you can violate your probation and how to avoid them:
1. Failing a Drug Test
If drug use was a factor in your original conviction, you will likely be required to take regular drug tests as a condition of your probation. Failing a drug test can result in a violation. To avoid this, stay clean and avoid any drugs or alcohol during your probation period.
2. Not Meeting with Your Probation Officer
Your probation officer is there to help you succeed and ensure that you are meeting the conditions of your probation. Failing to meet with your probation officer or missing appointments can result in a violation. Make sure you make it to all of your appointments and communicate any issues or concerns with your probation officer.
3. Committing a New Crime
Committing a new crime while on probation is a clear violation. Avoid any risky or illegal behavior and stay out of trouble.
4. Traveling Without Permission
Depending on the terms of your probation, you may be required to get permission from your probation officer before traveling out of town or out of state. Failing to do so can result in a violation. Make sure to communicate any travel plans with your probation officer and get approval before leaving.
5. Not Paying Fines or Restitution
If you were ordered to pay fines or restitution as part of your sentence, failing to do so can result in a violation. Make sure to keep up with all payments and communicate any issues or concerns with your probation officer.
If you do violate your probation, it is important to act quickly and seek legal assistance. At Cavett, Abbott & Weiss, we can help you navigate the legal system and work to minimize the consequences of a probation violation. Contact us today to learn more.