Probation violations can occur when the individual is on probation is accused of violating the terms of their probation. Because a probation violation can be serious, any individual accused of violating the terms of their probation should be familiar with how probation may be violated and the potential consequences they may face as a result. The various types of probation violations are:
- Not appearing at a scheduled court appearance;
- Failure to report to a probation officer at their scheduled time;
- Failure to pay required fines or restitution ordered by the court;
- Traveling out of state without permission from a probation officer or visiting certain people or places prohibited by the terms of probation;
- Possessing, using or selling illegal drugs;
- Committing another crime or offense; and
- An arrest for another offense.
Consequences of probation violations
The consequences of a probation violation can range from a warning to additional charges and a sentence resulting in incarceration. The punishment the accused violator may face for an alleged probation violation may depend on factors including the seriousness of the alleged violation; if there are any prior probation violations; and circumstances that may mitigate the alleged violation. Penalties can include fines, probation being extended or jail time.
It is important for any individual who has been accused of committing a probation violation to take it seriously. Just like facing criminal charges, individuals accusing of violating their probation need to know how to defend themselves so they can protect themselves from the potential penalties and consequences associated with probation violations.