What Happens if I Violate My Probation in Ohio?
October 18, 2017
Violating probation is a serious offense, but it does not necessarily mean you will automatically go to jail. The consequences of your violation will depend on a range of different factors, including the nature and seriousness of the violation, if you previously violated it, and if there were any other circumstances that might impact the severity of the situation. Punishment for violating your probation can include steep fines, extended probation, jail time, and more.
How Did You Violate Your Probation?
When you ignore, refuse, or somehow break the terms of your probation at any time during which it is effective, this is considered a violation. The duration of probation can run anywhere from one to three years, but can even last for several years in some cases, depending on the offense.
A person can violate his or her probation in a number of ways, which can all impact the punishment one receives. Common probation violations include:
- Failing to attend a scheduled court appearance
- Failing to report to a probation officer at a specific time or place
- Failing to pay required fines or restitution ordered by the court
- Traveling out of state or visiting certain people or places without the permission of a probation officer
- Possession, use, or distributing illegal drugs
- Committing other crimes or offenses
- Being arrested for another offense
What Next?
You violated your probation and nothing can change that, but it does not necessarily mean you can expect the worst. There are no set rules as to what happens in the aftermath of a probation violation. What happens next is often in the hands of the probation officer who can either issue a warning or require you to appear in court for a probation violation hearing. Your probation officer might consider how you violated your probation and if you previously violated it or were issued any warnings. Generally, if you are requested to appear in court, the probation officer will likely request some type of penalty.
It is important to note that, at your hearing, you have legal rights that you should exercise to avoid suffering any additional penalties or consequences. You can and should hire an attorney to represent you during this time and to present evidence and witnesses that support your case.
Let Our Probation Violation Attorney Help You!
If you recently violated your probation, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and minimize the damage. At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we will take any necessary legal actions to help ensure the best possible outcome for your particular situation. Backed by over 30 years of experience, rest assured your case is in good hands with us.
Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder today at 330-762-7477 to schedule your FREE consultation.