In Texas, probation is a lifeline, offering individuals the chance to avoid jail time and rebuild their lives.
However, this opportunity comes with strict conditions that must be followed. If you violate probation in Texas, especially in cities like San Antonio, the consequences can be severe and life-altering. You’ll need an expert criminal defense lawyer in Texas to help you with your case.
With over 365,000 people under probation supervision in Texas, it’s crucial to understand what happens if you fail to meet these requirements. So, let’s find out.
Ways To Violate Probation in Texas
Probation violations in Texas can lead to serious repercussions. Depending on the nature of the violation, the court will decide your fate.
Violating probation in Texas can happen in several ways:
- Failing to Report to Your Probation Officer: Missing scheduled meetings without a valid reason is a common violation.
- Not Paying Fines or Restitution: Failing to make court-ordered payments is another serious infraction.
- Committing a New Offense: Being charged with another crime while on probation is one of the most severe violations.
- Testing Positive for Drugs or Alcohol: Many probation conditions include strict prohibitions against substance use.
- Violating Curfew or Travel Restrictions: Ignoring curfew or leaving a designated area without permission is also a violation.
- Not Completing Community Service or Mandatory Programs: Failing to complete assigned community service hours or court-mandated programs can lead to significant consequences.
Immediate Consequences of a Probation Violation
When you violate probation in Texas, your probation officer will likely report the infraction to the court. At this point, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest, leading to a probation revocation hearing.
During this hearing, the judge will decide whether you have violated your probation and, if so, what the consequences will be.
What to Expect at a Probation Revocation Hearing
At a probation revocation hearing, the judge will review the evidence and decide your fate. Unlike a criminal trial, the burden of proof is lower, meaning it’s easier for the state to prove you violated your probation.
The judge has several options, including:
- ContinuingProbation: The judge may allow you to continue on probation, possibly with stricter conditions.
- Extending Probation: Your probation period may be extended, requiring you to comply for a longer time.
- Revoking Probation: The judge may revoke your probation entirely, resulting in jail or prison time for the remainder of your original sentence.
Contact The Experienced Defense Attorney In Texas From The Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates
If you’re accused of violating probation, it’s crucial to seek legal help immediately. A criminal defense attorney in Texas from The Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates can represent you at your probation revocation hearing.
Our criminal defense lawyers, led by Robert Maurer, challenge the evidence against you and advocate for a continuation or modification of your probation rather than revocation.
Our goal is to protect your rights. So, get in touch with our experienced criminal law attorney and let us work to protect your freedom.
