Can I avoid jail for a probation violation?

Just because you’ve violated probation does not mean you must spend time in jail or prison. There are ways to convince the judge to give you a second chance.

Jail is Not Mandatory for a Violation of Probation

Typically, you make a mistake, learn from it, and move on. This is how life works, right? Not while you are on probation, and depending on the court, a probation violation can have disastrous consequences. So, what can be done to help you avoid jail if you make a mistake and violate probation? A lot! If you proactively take steps to get on the right track and make a credible and reliable plan, a judge might be convinced to give you another chance without harsh consequences. With careful preparation and a zealous defense, you can usually avoid jail for a probation violation. Should you retain counsel? What about an appointed attorney? What are the possible penalties? How likely is jail? Here are answers to your probation violation questions and concerns.

What is the best way to get out of a violation of probation (VOP) and avoid jail?

Every case is different, and there is no “cookie-cutter” formula for fixing a felony or misdemeanor probation violation. It is normal to have questions regarding probation violation allegations and the possible penalties. Someone must carefully look at your situation and weigh many factors to devise a plan to minimize or prevent a jail sentence for probation violation. A judge will consider your criminal history, previous performance on probation, the facts of the original offense, the biases of the judge and prosecutor, and your general life circumstances. Creating a winning plan takes extensive experience and knowledge of the system. Most experienced violation of probation lawyers fail and then watch the client get hauled off to jail.

Who is the best attorney for a violation of probation?

There are many lawyers and someone for every price range. For those without financial resources, a court-appointed attorney is always available. The biggest problem with an appointed lawyer is that you cannot pick who you want, and you will not have time to plan or prepare. As for retained attorneys handling probation violations in Michigan, you should consider the Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. They have an unparalleled track record of helping clients successfully win violation of probation hearings and avoid jail and prison. Although no lawyer can guarantee anything, a great lawyer gives you the best chance of getting out of a rough spot with a tough judge.

What is the sentence for violation of probation?

The maximum sentence for violation of probation is whatever the maximum sentence was for the original felony or misdemeanor offense. A probation violation is not a new crime and doesn’t result in a separate conviction. A VOP is a continuation of the original offense; any sentence goes to the original conviction. For a misdemeanor, the maximum is most likely up to 93 days or one year, and you would get credit for any previously served time. For a felony, the maximum sentence is the statutory maximum prison sentence for the original offense.

Examples of violation of probation maximum sentences:

OWI 1st (operating while intoxicated) – 93 days
Domestic Violence – 93 days
Retail Fraud 3rd Degree – 93 days
Assault and Battery – 93 days
OWI 2nd – 1 year
Possession of Marijuana – 1 year

Retail Fraud 2nd Degree – 1 year
Possession of a Controlled Substance – 4 years
Felonious Assault – 4 years
Retail Fraud 1st Degree – 5 years
Uttering and Publishing – 14 years
Habitual Offenders have increased maximums

What alternatives are there for violation of probation?

Judges have broad discretion when determining a sentence for a probation violation. With or without more jail time, they can extend probation, order additional fines and costs, order community service, jail alternative programs, boot camp, therapy, education, tether, additional or new alcohol or drug testing, home confinement, and much more. In many cases, a judge can be convinced to impose other consequences besides incarceration. Again, different judges handle these matters in various ways; having a lawyer who knows how to best proceed with your case is critical.

Michigan Violation of Probation Lawyers

The Defense Team at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has extensive experience successfully representing clients accused of violating probation. If there is a way to beat the violation, we will find it. If a plea to the probation violation is the best option, we can help you avoid incarceration or get the minimum jail time possible. We will do everything that can be done to help you avoid jail or prison, and we are very good at getting favorable results.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.