What Happens if I Violate Probation in Maryland?

If you are someone who was offered probation in lieu of jail time, and you have recently been charged with violating your probation terms, you are most likely wondering what comes next. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Maryland criminal defense attorney to learn more about violating probation and how we can help you through the legal process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What are some of the most common conditions of probation in Maryland?

There are various conditions and terms of probation that Maryland courts will impose on an individual. Some of the most common terms of probation in Maryland are as follows:

• You will have to meet regularly with your assigned probation officer.
• You may have to do community service for a period of time.
• You may have to avoid contacting certain people.
• You may be prohibited from changing your address or changing your location without specific permission.
• You may have to submit to drug testing.
• You may have to undergo court-mandated education or employment.
• You may be restricted from consuming alcohol, depending on your initial crime.
• You may be barred from possessing firearms.
• You may have to pay certain fines.

That being said, if you are caught violating any of the terms of your probation, depending on the severity of your violation, there is a very good chance you may have to spend time in jail or face other serious penalties. That is why you simply cannot afford to proceed without the assistance of an experineced Maryland criminal defense attorney when you attend your probation violation hearing.

What happens at the probation violation hearing?

Your probation violation hearing will determine whether you violated the terms of your probation or not. Oftentimes, you will be brought in front of the judge who initially sentenced you. Essentially, whether or not you violated probation will be determined by that judge. All the judge needs to sentence you once again is a preponderance of evidence, which is a lower standard than "beyond a reasonable doubt." You can either plead guilty or deny the charges. If you deny the charges, your probation officer, and other potential witnesses, may present evidence as to whether you violated your probation terms. However, you may also retain the services of an attorney who can present evidence to disprove the charges. If you are found guilty, you may receive your previously suspended sentence, or, if the violation was less serious and you display true remorse, you may receive extended probation. Regardless of your circumstances, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney at your side. Our firm is here to help. All you have to do is ask.

Contact our experienced Maryland firm

Here at the Ruben Law Firm, we understand how much your legal situation means to you. That is why we pledge to provide you with the personalized attention you deserve, every step of the way. Our firm is more than happy to assist you through matters of personal injury law, bankruptcy, family law, criminal defense, and estate planning. Attorney Ruben has helped clients achieve favorable results in a wide array of legal matters for years, and he is ready to do the same for you. Simply contact the Ruben Law Firm today.