What Happens If You Violate Probation in Pennsylvania?

If you've been sentenced to probation in Pennsylvania, it's crucial that you understand the conditions of your probation and what could happen if you violate them. A violation of any term or condition of probation can lead to serious consequences. At Scaringi Law, we're dedicated to helping you navigate these complexities and providing you with the necessary legal support.

Probation is a type of criminal sentence that allows a person to stay in their community instead of serving time in prison, as long as they comply with certain conditions laid out by the court. These conditions often include regular check-ins with a probation officer, maintaining employment, refraining from committing more crimes, avoiding any association with other known criminals, and not leaving the jurisdiction without permission.

Violating any of these conditions can lead to a probation violation. The consequences of violating probation in Pennsylvania can vary depending upon the nature and severity of the violation, prior violations, and other factors.

Common Probation Violations to Avoid

There are several common probation violations that individuals should make every effort to avoid.

These include:

• Missing Meetings or Appointments: This could be a meeting with a probation officer or a court-ordered appointment like counseling or community service. It's essential to prioritize these commitments and ensure you attend every single one.
• Failing to Pay Fines or Restitution: If your probation terms include paying fines or restitution, it's crucial to keep up with these payments. Non-payment can be seen as a violation of your probation terms.
• Failing Drug or Alcohol Tests: Many probation terms require the individual to stay sober and submit to regular drug and alcohol tests. A failed test can result in immediate violation of probation.
• Not Maintaining Employment: Some probation conditions require the individual to maintain steady employment. Unemployment without a good reason can be considered a violation.
• Committing Other Offenses: Committing any other criminal offenses while on probation, regardless of how minor they may seem, is a serious violation.
• Associating with Known Criminals: Probation often requires the individual to avoid association with other known criminals. This includes friends or family members who have criminal records.
• Traveling Out of Jurisdiction: Unless you have explicit permission from your probation officer, traveling out of your designated jurisdiction can result in a violation.

The key to avoiding these common probation violations is to understand and strictly adhere to all the conditions of your probation. If you are unsure about any of the terms, it's important to consult with your probation officer or your attorney for clarification.

Consequences of Probation Violation

If you're accused of violating your probation, your probation officer may issue a warning or require you to appear in court for a probation violation hearing. If the violation is severe or if you have multiple violations, you may be immediately arrested and held in jail until your hearing.

During the hearing, if the judge determines that a violation occurred, they have broad discretion in determining the penalty. This could range from extending the length of your probation, imposing additional probation terms, to revoking your probation entirely and sending you to jail or prison.

Legal Defense for Probation Violations

If you're facing a probation violation, it's crucial that you seek legal counsel immediately. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and present a strong defense on your behalf.

At Scaringi Law, our team of seasoned criminal defense attorneys understand the intricacies of Pennsylvania's probation system. We can help you understand the allegations against you, gather evidence to challenge the violation, represent you at your hearing, and advocate for the most favorable outcome.

In some cases, there may be valid reasons for the alleged violation. For example, if you missed a meeting with your probation officer due to a medical emergency, we can present evidence to support this. If you were accused of failing a drug test, we can question the validity of the results or the testing procedure.

Violating probation in Pennsylvania can have serious consequences, but remember, you have legal rights and options. If you're facing a probation violation, don't hesitate to seek legal help. The team at Scaringi Law is here to provide the legal defense you need.

Contact us online or call us at (717) 775-7195 for a consultation and let us help you navigate this challenging situation.