When a person is charged with committing a crime, they may be sentenced to probation in lieu of jail time. This special sanction allows the offender to remain free as long as they adhere to certain conditions and requirements. If you or a loved one is facing probation, your attorney will advise you on the terms specific to your sentence. Below are some frequently asked questions about the probation process in general.

Common Probation FAQ

What does probation involve?

A person on probation is required to meet regularly with a probation officer (PO), whose job it is to ensure that they are meeting the terms of their probation sentence. These terms vary depending on the offense and may include paying fines, avoiding specific people and places, refraining from traveling out of state, and submitting to drug and alcohol testing.

What happens if a person violates the terms of their probation?

When a person fails to comply with the conditions outlined in their probation agreement, their PO can either issue a warning or require them to appear in court with their attorney for a probation violation hearing. If the offender is found guilty of the violation, the presiding judge can enforce several sanctions, including jail time, added fines, or revoked probation.

Is probation the same as parole?

No. While both parole and probation are sanctions that allow offenders to stay out of jail, parole is only granted after an offender has already served some prison time. Probation, on the other hand, is designed to keep individuals from having to go to jail at all.

If you or someone you love is facing probation or is charged with a probation violation, get in touch with the Law Office of Mike Hamilton in Columbia, MO. With more than 30 years of experience as a defense attorney, this seasoned attorney and his team are experts at helping clients avoid jail time and receive manageable conditions and terms. Visit the firm’s website to learn more, and call (573) 825-5698 to set up a consultation today.