How Long Will I Go to Jail for Violating Probation?

If you are on probation, you should be aware of the potential consequences of violating its terms. A probation violation can lead to imprisonment, and the length of your sentence will depend on the severity of the violation and your criminal history. This blog post will explore how long you can expect to go to jail for a probation violation. 

Remember that these are just general guidelines; the specific case will always trump any generalized advice. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the punishment for violating probation.

What is probation?

Probation occurs when an offender is released from jail, prison, or detention with allowances to regain certain freedoms. These freedoms are offered under the supervision of a probation officer and given to an individual over some time as long as good behavior is documented by supervising entities. 

A probation violation occurs when the conditions of probation are broken. The associated offenses for probation violations vary and are conditional upon the terms agreed to in court and through the supervision of a probation officer and a judge assigned to the case. The punishment for a probation violation typically relies on the nature and seriousness of the offense, existing breaches, and the terms of a probation sentence. In some cases, returning to jail or prison will occur. 

What are the most common probation violations?

Probation violations are unique to the individual’s crime and the conditions of their probation sentence. Some of the most common probation violations include but are not limited to:

• Failing a drug or alcohol test
• Missing a probation meeting or failing to contact a probation officer
• Failure to pay a fine, restitution, or child support
• Unapproved travel
• Failure to secure employment or failure to maintain employment
• Traveling across state lines
• Selling, using, or possession of illegal drugs
• Any crime committed during a probationary period
• Failure to complete community service
• Restraining order violations
• Unapproved contact with felons

Complying with the individual and unique terms of probation requires accommodations to the indicated terms of probation and interaction with a probation officer. It is highly encouraged and recommended to abide by the sentence and keep in regular contact with a probation officer regarding the nuances within a probation sentence. Contacting a lawyer versed in both the conditions of probation and the conditions of your case is highly encouraged if you believe you have violated the terms of probation. 

How long will I go to jail for a probation violation?

If probation is violated, an arrest warrant will be issued as soon as a probation officer determines that the terms of probation have been violated. The individual will be taken into custody, and a probation violation hearing will be scheduled. At the time of a hearing, the court will determine whether or not probation has been violated. A judge will also evaluate the degree of severity a violation holds. The appropriate punishment will be given, including additional probationary time, fines, and jail time. 

While it is difficult to estimate how much jail time will be sentenced, it is critical to speak with an attorney regarding the details of probation, an individual case, and potential fines or jail time associated with a probation violation.

Call the attorneys at The Bellinger Law Office

If you violate the terms of your probation, you could go to jail. The length of your sentence will depend on the severity of the violation and your criminal history. If you have violated probation, we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact The Bellinger Law Office to understand and execute your case with the highest standards and level of care. Call us today (260)428-2214.