Probation Violations
Ohio law allows certain individuals to serve probation as an alternative to imprisonment, giving them the opportunity to remain in the community while meeting specific court-ordered requirements. However, when someone fails to comply with these terms—whether by missing appointments, failing a drug test, committing a new offense, or violating any other condition—prosecutors and judges treat these violations very seriously.
A probation violation can lead to severe consequences, including extended supervision, additional restrictions, hefty fines, or even the possibility of being sent to jail or prison. The outcome often depends on how quickly and effectively the situation is addressed.
If you have been accused of violating probation, it is essential to seek legal assistance right away. A knowledgeable attorney can review the allegations, advocate on your behalf, and work to minimize the penalties you face. With the right representation, it may be possible to keep you on probation, avoid harsher consequences, and achieve the best possible resolution.
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What You can Expect as Terms of Your Probation
Probation terms are serious and the state of Ohio expects you to follow them perfectly. Some of the most common terms that you can expect your probation to include are the following:
- Attend classes or counseling sessions
- Find an appropriate job
- Make your home available for observation by an officer
- Not leaving a specified area
- Paying any associated fees or restitution
- Performing community service
- Submitting to random alcohol or drug testing
- Supporting anyone who is dependent on you
- Timely reporting to your parole officer
If you violate any of the terms that comprise your probation order or if your parole or probation officer has reasonable grounds to believe that you have violated any of your probation terms, you will be arrested by law enforcement.
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Penalties Associated with Probation Violation in Ohio
There are numerous penalties that you can end up facing due to a probation violation in Ohio, but the most common punishments that you can end up facing include:
- Additional charges and penalties being added to your initial sentence
- Arrest
- A guilty conviction for the original offense
- No right to bond after an arrest
- Receiving the maximum punishment possible for the original sentence
- The time on probation you have already served not counting toward your sentence
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Probation Hearings for Violations
After an arrest for violating probation, you can expect to attend a hearing in front of a judge. A jury will not be present at this hearing because you have already been convicted of a crime. Instead, a sentencing judge will hear details about your violation and decide if a violation of the established terms and conditions actually occurred. Also, unlike a criminal trial, the judge can require you to testify against yourself. Prosecution during probation hearings is not required to establish that you violated probation beyond a reasonable doubt, but instead by the lower standard of preponderance of the evidence, which involves proving that you more likely than not committed the violation. Given these many complicated details, it is often critical to have an attorney help you navigate this process.
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Speak with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
It is critical to immediately retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney if you have violated the terms of your probation. At Kruger & Hodges, we understand the various laws involved with probation violations and we are committed to making sure that you have the strongest defense possible. Contact our law office today to schedule an initial free case evaluation with one of our criminal defense lawyers.
Call or text 513-894-3333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form