What is probation and what happens if I violate it?

Probation is a privilege and not a right. Probation is an opportunity to prove that you do not need to be incarcerated. When a person is placed on probation, the court normally enters a jail or prison sentence, but suspends the imposition of the sentence, provided that the defendant complies with certain requirements, such as reporting to a probation officer, not being arrested or convicted of new offenses while on probation, pay restitution, attending counseling or other conditions set by the court.

If the court finds that a person violated probation, it means that they have not complied with the conditions set by the court. The court can then impose the previously suspended sentence and place the defendant in jail or prison. It is very important to let your Public Defender know if the reason you were unable to comply was due to financial, substance abuse, or other issues, so that the court can consider the information and, hopefully, reinstate the term of probation.

Show All Answers

1. How do I find out if I have been appointed a Public Defender?
2. How can I get the service of a Public Defender?
3. I have been told I have a Conflict Attorney, what does that mean?
4. How can I contact my conflict attorney?
5. If I am arrested for drug possession, is there a way to have my criminal case dismissed?
6. What can I expect if I am arrested?
7. What is probation and what happens if I violate it?
8. What is bail?
9. If I am arrested, should I talk to the police?
10. If the police don't read me my rights, can I get my case dismissed?
11. What is an Arraignment?
12. What is a preliminary hearing?
13. What if I fail to appear at my hearing?
14. What do I do if I know I have a warrant?
15. What do I do if I am picked up on a warrant?
16. Can the Public Defender's Office represent me on my traffic ticket?
17. How do I get my case investigated?
18. How do I find someone who is in the Humboldt County Jail?
19. How can I visit someone who is in the Humboldt County Detention Center?
20. How do I visit a state prison?
21. Are Public Defenders attorneys?
22. What is the difference between a Public Defender and a District Attorney?
23. Can I file my own motions in court?
24. If I am a victim of a crime, can the Public Defender's Office represent me?
25. Do Public Defenders have the same obligations as private attorneys?
26. What happens if I am charged with a juvenile offense?
27. What should I do if I am in a abusive situation?
28. What should I do if my family breaks up?
29. If juvenile charges are filed against you, you have the right to a lawyer
30. How does a juvenile case start?
31. What happens if I am arrested (juvenile)?
32. What is a detention hearing (Juvenile)?
33. What should I wear to my hearing?
34. What is a plea hearing (Juvenile)?
35. What is a dispositional hearing (Juvenile)?
36. What is emancipation?