Probation is a court-ordered punishment and must be taken seriously. If you have been convicted of a crime, you may be sentenced to probation as all or part of your punishment. Probation is ordered by the court, and its terms vary in length depending on the charges against you. Judges use probation as a means to ensure that you act with a certain level of responsibility. Probation gives you a second chance to abide by the law. In addition, probation is often used as an alternative to incarceration when negotiating a plea bargain.
The penalties for violating probation in New York will be severe, which is why you will need an experienced Buffalo criminal defense lawyer to negotiate with the court in your favor. Here is what you should know.
Penalties for Violating Probation | Restrictions
Probation requires regular meetings with an assigned probation officer who monitors your progress and administers any court-required tests, such as random drug tests, your participation in court-ordered drug or alcohol programs and any required community service. In addition, you must follow very specific rules and requirements as outlined in your terms of probation. All activities are strictly monitored and restricted during your probation period, including your ability to change jobs, move or leave the state without permission. It is important to have a Buffalo probation violation lawyer on your side.
Violating probation is a very serious charge — one on which the court does not look very favorably. Penalties for violating probation can be harsh, especially if you are a repeat offender. If you have been convicted of violating probation, you can benefit from the strong legal defense that an experienced Buffalo criminal defense lawyer, such as Arthur L. Pressman, can provide. Call us today for a free consultation.