For the most part, the U.S. criminal justice system punishes crimes based on the nature of the offense in question. That is, the more severe the offense, the harsher the penalty. This is why individuals who commit non-violent crimes like drug possession, traffic violations or petty theft, may not go to jail.
As an alternative to serving jail time, you may be given probation if you are convicted of a petty crime. Basically, probation is your chance to prove to the court that you can live your life within the confines of the law. However, probation is not freehand to live your life as you please.
Here are a couple of things you want to avoid if you are on probation.
Being with the wrong crowd
If your old buddies are church folks who have never had run-ins with the law, there is no big deal hanging out with them. However, it becomes a problem if your friends have a criminal history or have not abandoned their old ways.
One of the conditions of probation may require you to keep away from known criminals. Basically, this means that if you are found hanging out with individuals with criminal backgrounds, then you may be deemed to have violated your probation even if you commit no crime.
Leaving the state without notifying the court or the probation officer
While you are on probation, your movement may be subject to the court’s permission. This means that you have to seek the court’s approval before you can travel out of state for whatever reason. Leaving without approval may amount to a violation of your probate terms.
Protecting your rights
If you are out on probation, it is important that you adhere to its terms. Knowing how Georgia probation laws work can help you protect your rights and avoid trouble during your probation.