If you have been put on probation instead of given a jail sentence, there are specific requirements you need to follow. If you violate one or more of the terms of your probation, you could face additional criminal charges and may be required to serve time in jail. The attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, provide our clients with high-quality, skilled legal advocacy to minimize the risk of going to jail if they have been accused of violating probation.
Common Probation Requirements in North CarolinaDepending on the unique circumstances of the underlying criminal law case that resulted in you receiving probation, you may have multiple requirements you have to follow to prevent you from going to jail. Some of the most common requirements include the following:
Many people may need help understanding the types of actions or inaction that can result in allegations of probation violations. There are plenty of ways that a person can violate probation. Some of the conditions of probation are included automatically, while others may be unique to the area. Common probation violations commonly include the following:
When it comes to probation violation cases, the stakes are high. Generally, suppose your probation officer has alleged that you violated the terms of probation. In that case, you will be required to do the jail time that the judge originally suspended in your case. There may be steps we can take to minimize your jail time or convince the officer or court to allow you to continue probation or, in some cases, even terminate your probation.
At Arnold & Smith, PLLC, we care about our clients and treat them like family members, making it a point to know everything about our client's cases so we can advocate for them effectively. We will work with you to understand your goals and help you stay informed so you can make informed decisions about the strategy of your case.
It is important to hire an attorney who understands where you are coming from and can represent your side of the story to your probation officer and to the court. The probation violation accusations may have come from a misunderstanding, or you may have had an emergency situation come up that you needed to address.
Do Not Take Probation Violations LightlyViolating probation may not seem like a big deal, but it is important that you take this type of accusation seriously. Although North Carolina has changed some of its probation laws, that does not mean judges will go easy on probation violators. You may have heard it said that the only acceptable reason for violating probation is being in a coma or dead, which is a tongue-in-cheek saying.
However, there is some truth to the sentiment because North Carolina judges do not take probation violations lightly, and they do not generally accept frivolous excuses. When a person stands before them for probation violations, they think about the legal penalties that could be imposed.
North Carolina's probation laws are technical and complicated. Even if it seems like you do not have a defense for violating probation, an experienced attorney will increase the likelihood that you will have a more favorable outcome. Even if it seems like you do not have a valid legal defense, your attorney may be able to go through the details of your case carefully and find violations in the process. For example, your probation officer or the district attorney may have failed to take the proper steps.
An attorney can help you understand North Carolina's probation laws and protect your rights. Going before a judge without a skilled attorney on your side in a probation violation matter could have dire consequences for you. You may even be required to return to jail and serve your time. Working with an attorney is crucial.
Discuss Your Probation Violation Case With a Skilled AttorneyOur attorneys will also be honest with you about your legal options, and we will not close the case until we have done everything possible to achieve the best outcome for you. Do not hesitate to contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary case evaluation and learn more about how we can fight for our rights.