When you’ve been convicted of a crime, the sentencing judge generally has a few options to choose from.
In addition to prison time, the judge may consider a probationary sentence.
Probation is a form of in-community supervision that allows the defendant to remain at home while following a set of what can be fairly restrictive terms and conditions.
If you have been charged with violating your probation in Wyoming, you likely have a lot of questions about what you can expect in the coming weeks and months.
It is important to understand the consequences you may be facing as a result of violating probation.
Your best bet is to consult an attorney to develop a strong strategy for your case.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BREAK PROBATION?
If you have violated the terms of your probation, your probation officer will likely file a complaint against you.
You will then receive a summons to appear in court.
If the judge or hearing officer determines that it is more likely than not that you violated probation, the judge will then impose consequences for the violation.
As a consequence of violating probation, you may be sent to jail or be required to complete community service or undergo additional conditions of probation.
The court may even revoke your probation altogether and impose your original sentence, which could include prison time.
HOW LONG DO YOU HAVE TO SIT IN JAIL FOR A PROBATION VIOLATION?
The length of time you will be required to remain in jail following a probation violation depends on the facts of your case.
It is possible that the judge will reimpose the same prison sentence you would have received if you hadn’t been sentenced to probation instead.
Alternatively, the judge may order you to spend up to 30 days in jail or 60 days in a community correctional program.
WILL YOU GO TO JAIL FOR YOUR FIRST PROBATION VIOLATION?
If this is the first time you have violated the conditions of your probation, don’t panic.
If you haven’t already, contact your probation officer.
You may be able to avoid having to go to court to address the violation.
It is unlikely that you will serve jail time for a first violation, though the outcome depends on the specific circumstances of your case.
It is more likely that you will be reminded of the terms and conditions with which you agreed to comply and be given a grace period during which you can demonstrate your ability to do so.
HOW DO YOU BEAT A PROBATION VIOLATION?
Your best chance at beating a probation violation is to comply with the terms and conditions of your probation.
Though these terms can be expensive and time-consuming continued compliance with probation is the best way to avoid spending time in jail.
If you do violate your probation, you should contact your probation officer immediately.
A probation officer is more likely to be lenient in their recommendations to the judge if they feel you have tried to comply and have been communicative in the process.
If you receive a summons for a probation revocation hearing, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible.
An experienced criminal defense attorney will be able to help determine the best strategy for avoiding additional jail time.
If you are set for a probation revocation hearing, be sure to appear in court on time and prepare a statement for the judge recounting your attempts and successes on probation.
A judge is a person, after all, and maybe more lenient if you can show that you have good intentions.
HIRE AN EXPERIENCED WYOMING PROBATION VIOLATION ATTORNEY
If you are facing the consequences of a probation violation, you need the help of an attorney.
Cowboy Country Law is a Casper-based law firm that has defended clients across Wyoming.
We defend individuals in court for all manner of criminal cases.
We will meet with you to discuss the facts of your probation violation, and help you get the best outcome for your case.
Contact us today so we can get to work protecting your rights.