For numerous minor (less serious) offenses in California, you may be given the option of being sentenced to probation instead of imprisonment or prison. Probation is a period of time during which a person who has been convicted of a crime is monitored in some way, either formally or informally.
If you are on probation and have been accused of a probation violation, contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to find out how a criminal defense attorney could help you.
What happens during probation?
During probation, the individual must adhere to the requirements of probation, which differ from person to person and are often tied to the details of the criminal offense. Abstaining from drugs and alcohol, completing community service, paying restitution, and attending counseling are all common conditions of probation.
Progress reviewing hearings
The judge may ask you to show that you are making an attempt to complete your probation conditions in specific situations. You must appear in court for a progress review hearing. You must appear at a progress review hearing if a judge demands one. If you violate your probation, the court may issue a bench warrant for your arrest, and your probation may be terminated.
Yes, an attorney can help
It helps to know more about probation — and what occurs at progress review hearings — to appreciate why having an attorney with you at a progress review hearing is a good idea. An alternative sentence, such as probation, is a type of alternative sentencing.
In other words, it is an alternative to going to jail that is provided to persons who the court judges might benefit from being on probation rather than going to jail – often, people with no criminal history or who have committed minor offenses. The court can revoke probation and impose a jail or prison sentence if a person breaches the conditions of probation or fails to fulfill the requisite periods.
What the judge reviews at the hearing
At a progress review hearing, the judge will examine what you did to fulfill your probation’s requirements, such as paying restitution, performing community service, or attending therapy. If you haven’t met those criteria, the court may revoke your probation and send you to jail. This might be due to a family emergency or a difficulty with your job schedule.
A criminal defense attorney may be able to assist you in avoiding this. Your lawyer can talk with the judge on your behalf to ensure that the judge is aware that you are making a good faith attempt to fulfill your probation requirements. Your criminal defense lawyer might also propose that your probation conditions be altered so that you can successfully fulfill them.
Call now for help
A progress review hearing can be scary, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you will be able to confidently enter the courtroom. Chambers Law Firm can provide you with peace of mind as you prepare for a progress review hearing – and can also assist you throughout the criminal justice process. Call us now at 714-760-4088 to get started.
