When someone is charged with a crime, there are various ways to serve a sentence. For example, you may be offered probation. Probation will allow you to serve your sentence at home, in the community, rather than in jail. But, with probation comes strict guidelines you must follow. Violating these requirements can result in serious consequences. Read on for more information regarding probation violations in New Jersey.
What are some of the most common conditions of probation in New Jersey?
There are various conditions of probation in New Jersey. Generally, an offender will be on probation for one to five years, but this time can be terminated or extended. Once you are sentenced to probation, you will be assigned a probation officer who has the legal authority to do random check-ins to ensure that you are not violating the terms of your probation. Some of the most common conditions of probation in New Jersey are as follows:
- You will have to regularly meet with your probation officer
- You may have to pay heavy fines regarding your charges
- You may have to obtain and keep employment
- You may have to participate in community service for a period of time
- You may have to attend alcohol or drug counseling if your charges are related to a potential substance abuse issue.
- You may have to abide by a curfew.
- You mustn’t break any laws.
- You may have to submit to random drug testing.
What happens if I violate probation in New Jersey?
If you are charged with violating probation in New Jersey, your probation officer will file a Violation of Probation (VOP) complaint with the court, and from here, you will have to attend a hearing where the judge will determine if the officer’s complaint is warranted. You must attend this hearing, and failing to show up may result in the court issuing a warrant for your arrest. When you attend this hearing, you have a right to retain legal counsel, and your experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney can present evidence on your behalf to disprove the violation claim. If the complaint is deemed untrue or invalid, the violation will be dismissed, however, if the judge decides you are guilty, you may have your probation revoked and you may be sentenced to jail.
If you are facing a probation violation, contact our firm today.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves on our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
