Tempe Criminal Lawyers Explain Arizona Probation Violations

In Arizona, the judge in your case might order probation for you instead of, or in addition to, jail time. Although you are not physically in jail during your probation period, it is important to remember that you are still being held under certain conditions until you are no longer required to be under supervision. While you are allowed some freedom compared to jail time, any violation of the court’s guidelines for your probation can result in very serious penalties and should be carefully avoided. Be sure you know what constitutes a probation violation in Arizona so you can avoid any further penalties.

What Counts as a Probation Violation in Arizona?

What counts as an Arizona probation violation depends on the type of offense and your individual probation contract. However, as Tempe criminal lawyers, we most often deal with probation violations such as:

• You committed another crime during your probation period.
• You used or possessed alcohol and/or illegal drugs while on probation.
• You did not report to your probation officer or the court when scheduled.
• You left the state without prior approval.
• You did not attend or complete any mandatory treatment programs.
• You did not pay your fines.

What Happens if I Violate Probation in Arizona?

What happens after an Arizona probation violation is very dependent on your situation. In some cases you may be given a second chance to stick the terms of your probation; in other cases, you may be required to immediately serve jail time.

Because so much depends on your individual circumstances, it is important that you get in touch with your Tempe criminal lawyer as soon as possible after a potential probation violation. A skilled probation violation lawyer may be able to help you get probation reinstated after a violation occurs in Arizona. An experienced Arizona attorney may also be able to help reduce the punishment that you receive for the violation. Give us a call today at 1-888-929-5292, and take a look at our helpful book, Arizona Criminal Law – What You Must Know.