Virginia Beach Probation Violation Attorney

If you are currently serving probation for a past crime, it is important to understand the consequences that may occur if you violate any of the conditions of your probationary sentence. In the state of Virginia, individuals who are convicted of a probation violation may face jail time for their actions. Fortunately, an experienced Virginia Beach probation violation attorney may be able to reduce the consequences that are often associated with a probation violation.

Although each person’s probation terms vary based on his or her crime, when you agree to serve a probationary sentence in lieu of jail time, you also agree to follow any guidelines the court may impose. For example, if you are on probation for a drug or alcohol-related crime, the terms of your probation may include regular drug or alcohol testing.

Part of the terms of your probation may also include regularly scheduled meetings with the probation officer assigned to your case. In addition to these meetings, you are required to notify your probation officer of any changes to your contact or employment information.   

In many cases, you may be required to pay a specified monthly fee to your probation officer. The exact amount of this fine varies from case to case, but can be as little as $20 a month, or as much as several hundred dollars.

If you fail to follow any of the conditions of your probation, you may be charged with violating your probation. Missing a meeting with your probation officer or failing to report a change in address can constitute a violation of probation. In fact, even seemingly minor mistakes, such as forgetting to send in a payment, can lead to a probation violation.

The exact penalties you may face if convicted a probation violation vary based on the terms of your sentence. However, you could face jail time if your probation is revoked. In some cases, the court may force you to serve the remainder of your sentence in jail, or even impose the maximum sentence for the original offense. For instance, a person sentenced to three years probation for a Class 1 misdemeanor could face a one-year jail sentence (the maximum sentence for such crimes) if he or she is found guilty of a probation violation. This punishment can even be enforced if your probation sentence is almost complete.   

Fortunately, not all probation violations are warranted. Many charges are caused by human error or incorrect reporting. As a result, if your probation officer did not document the details of your case correctly, the charges against you may be dropped. Likewise, if an illness or emergency forced you to miss a scheduled meeting with your probation officer, the charges may not hold up in court.

Attorney Michael C. Tillotson brings over a decade of trial experience to the table, offering the aggressive legal representation you need during this stressful time. Representing clients throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, Mr. Tillotson is highly familiar with Virginia’s probation laws, and can use his knowledge to protect your rights. Improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in court. Contact Mr. Tillotson today for a free, no-obligation consultation on your probation violation case.