Probation Violations in O’Fallon, Illinois
In the state of Illinois, if you violate the terms of your probation, you may go to jail, but not always. The court has a few options at its discretion when it comes to dealing with probation violators. The court can allow you to just continue serving out the probation period with no enhanced penalties. The court may also lengthen or modify your probation for an additional period of time. Or the court can decide to revoke your probation and sentence you to the remainder of your jail sentence or even impose a new sentence on you. The nature and seriousness of the violation and the original terms of your probation are used by the court to determine how to handle your specific situation.
Probation Hearing
When you are accused of violating your probation in Illinois, you will be asked to appear before the probation board for a hearing, and it is best to appear with your lawyer present. It is possible you will be jailed until the hearing, although that is not always the case. Whether or not you are detained prior to the hearing depends largely on the original offense that you were charged with and whether the violation of your probation was a criminal act. At the hearing, evidence of your probation violation is presented, and you will have the opportunity to defend yourself against the charges.
Terms of Probation
When you are placed on probation in lieu of jail time, you are responsible for adhering to whatever plan the court agrees to prior to your release. For instance, you may be asked to:
- Report to a probation officer every week, biweekly, or monthly.
- Avoid using illegal drugs or alcohol.
- Perform community service.
- Get a job or keep your current job.
- Attend AA or NA meetings.
- Pay restitution to your victim.
- Pay fines, court costs, and other fees.
- Attend anger management classes.
- Attend school or a GED program.
- Appear at all court hearings.
- Avoid being around felons.
- Avoid firearms.
It goes without saying that you should also not commit any crimes while you are on probation. No matter what the provisions of your probation spell out, adherence is expected.
If you are on probation and have been accused of violating its terms, it’s important to contact your O’Fallon, Illinois, criminal law attorney right away. An effective representation can help reduce the negative outcome if you are found guilty of the charge.
