Oftentimes, probation officers and Pennsylvania courts will not be swayed by the reasons that you give for your probation violation. If you are accused of such, read on to learn how a seasoned York County, PA probation violation attorney at Ilkhanoff & Silverstein can help you fight off any additional charges that you may be facing.
What are the common types of probation violations?
Usually, a violation occurs when you break the terms of your probation given to you by the Pennsylvania courts. Specifically, the following are common examples of violated probationary conditions:
- Leaving the state.
- Removing your monitoring device.
- Losing your court-ordered employment.
- Missing your court-ordered community service.
- Skipping school.
- Possessing or partaking in illegal drugs.
- Patronizing a bar or liquor store or consuming alcohol.
- Leaving drug and alcohol treatment.
- Failing a mandatory drug test.
- Leaving anger management counseling.
- Failing to report to your probation officer.
- Failing to notify your probation officer when you get a new job or place of residence.
- Using a computer.
- Committing or getting arrested for any additional crimes.
- Associating with certain individuals, especially known felons.
- Disobeying your curfew.
- Neglecting to pay all court costs.
- Neglecting to pay court-ordered restitution to the victim.
- Possessing a firearm or purchasing a gun.
What are the penalties for a probation violation in Pennsylvania?
It is important to note that your probation officer only needs a “preponderance of evidence” instead of “beyond a reasonable doubt” to bring your probation violation forward to the Pennsylvania courts. So, if the court believes that you likely violated probation, that is sufficient grounds for them to modify your charges. Some ways in which they can modify your probation are as follows:
- Extending the period of your probation: this is to give you more time to complete the conditions of probation.
- Imposing new or additional probation conditions: these are usually terms such as going to a halfway house, completing classes, performing community service, getting substance abuse treatment, or completing a mental health evaluation.
- Resentencing you completely: this can mean possible jail time.
If you have been accused of a probation violation, it is in your best interest to retain the services of a knowledgeable York County, PA criminal defense attorney today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
We understand that going through the legal system alone can be both confusing and highly stressful. That is why it is our job to help you through every step of the process ahead. For years, we have been helping clients throughout Lancaster County and its surrounding areas through a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury cases, criminal defense matters, family law issues, estate planning law matters, and more. If you need legal assistance, we are here to help. Contact Ilkhanoff & Silverstein today.
