Probation Violations Lawyers in Detroit, Michigan

Probation is often seen as a second chance—a way to serve your sentence outside of jail. If you're on probation, you know how important it is to follow the rules set by the court. Violating the terms of your probation can lead to severe consequences, including fines, extended probation, or even jail time.  

Contact us today to learn how our criminal defense attorneys at Detroit Legal Group PLLC can help you. 

What Constitutes Probation Violation?

Probation terms can vary widely depending on the specifics of your case, but some common conditions include: 

• Regularly meeting with your probation officer 

• Maintaining employment or attending school 

• Completing community service hours 

• Refraining from alcohol or drug use 

• Avoiding certain people or places 

• Paying fines or restitution  

• Attending counseling or treatment programs 

• Adhering to travel restrictions or obtaining permission before traveling 

• Obeying all laws and not committing any further criminal offenses 

• Participating in random drug or alcohol tests 

Failing to meet any of these conditions can result in a probation violation. Sometimes, these violations occur unintentionally or due to unforeseen circumstances.  

Even seemingly minor breaches, such as missing a probation meeting or failing to report a change of address, can be considered violations. Engaging in criminal activity while on probation is one of the most serious violations, often leading to immediate arrest and additional charges.  

Substance abuse violations, including failing a drug test, are also common and can result in stricter supervision or mandated rehabilitation programs. Non-payment of fines or restitution can lead to extended probation and additional financial penalties.

Associating with known criminals or visiting places that have been explicitly prohibited by the court can quickly result in a violation being filed. 

Consequences of Probation Violations

Violating your probation can lead to a variety of consequences, including: 

• Warnings: In some cases, your probation officer may give you a warning for minor violations. 

• Additional conditions: You may be required to comply with additional terms, such as attending counseling or undergoing drug testing. 

• Extended probation: Your probation period could be extended, requiring you to adhere to the conditions for a longer period. 

• Fines: You might be subjected to additional fines. 

• Revocation of probation: In severe cases, your probation could be revoked, leading to imprisonment. 

• Increased supervision: You might be placed under stricter supervision, including more frequent check-ins with your probation officer. 

• Community service: You could be ordered to complete additional community service hours as a penalty. 

• House arrest: In some instances, you may be required to serve a period of house arrest, during which your movements will be strictly monitored. 

• Mandatory rehabilitation: You could be ordered to enroll in a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program. 

• Electronic monitoring: You might be required to wear an electronic monitoring device, such as an ankle bracelet, to track your movements. 

Probation Violations in Michigan

In Michigan, specific laws regulate probation and outline the terms and conditions that must be followed. If probation is violated, the court has the discretion to take various actions based on the severity and nature of the violation. 

Under Michigan law, probation officers can arrest individuals suspected of violating their probation terms. After the arrest, you will be brought before a judge for a hearing where the judge will determine whether a violation occurred and decide the appropriate penalty. 

Michigan law allows the judge to impose fines or mandate participation in rehabilitation programs for substance abuse violations. Probation officers in Michigan have significant discretion and can recommend specific consequences based on the nature of the violation. 

How Detroit Legal Group PLLC Can Help You

If you’ve been accused of violating your probation, we are here to support you. This is what you get when you hire us: 

• Initial consultation to understand the specifics of your situation. 

• Case evaluation to review the details of your case, including the alleged violation and the terms of your probation. 

• Strategic planning to develop a tailored defense strategy that achieves the best possible outcome for you. 

• Representation in all legal proceedings, including probation violation hearings, ensuring your voice is heard. 

• Negotiation with the prosecution to seek alternatives to incarceration, such as extended probation or rehabilitative programs. 

• Advocacy to protect your rights and your future. We’ll fight tirelessly to ensure you receive fair treatment under the law. 

• Ongoing criminal defense support throughout the probation process, to help you comply with all terms and conditions and avoid future violations.