Fighting For A Second Chance After A Probation Violation
Receiving probation for a criminal offense is usually a relief. But people walking free on probation forget that they still have one foot in jail or state prison. One slip-up can land you in front of the judge, who has the power to revoke probation and impose the original sentence.
If you are charged with a new offense or accused of violating the terms of your probation, the attorney at law firm Steven Wetter will fight to win you a second chance at your probation hearing. He knows that there may be a simple and honest explanation for a probation or parole violation. Attorney Steven H. Wetter realizes that people have setbacks and relapses. His job is to get you back in compliance and back in the good graces of the court.
If you have been contacted or arrested, or if you believe you have a warrant for probation violations, contact the Fort Myers office for a free consultation. Steven practices in criminal and juvenile courts of Florida’s Lee County and Charlotte County.
Understanding Florida Probation Laws: Key Information
If you are on probation in Florida, it is important to understand the laws and requirements to avoid violations. Probation allows individuals to serve their sentences in the community under strict conditions. However, failing to follow the rules can lead to serious repercussions.
Florida has probation statutes that define the rules and penalties for violations. Common violations include missing appointments, failing drug tests or committing new offenses. If you have been accused of a probation violation, you have the right to due process and a fair hearing. An experienced probation violation attorney can help to facilitate a just process.
The consequences of probation violations can vary. Often, individuals may face stricter conditions, extended probation or even incarceration. To minimize the risks of harsh penalties, it is essential to reach out to an experienced probation violation lawyer like Steven Wetter.
In some cases, you may also have the option to modify your probation terms or terminate probation early. Common examples include:
- Probation modification: Adjusting terms for financial or personal hardships
- Early termination: Seeking to end probation early after full compliance for a sustained period
- Interstate transfers: Allowing probationers to move out of state with necessary approvals
Attorney Wetter can help you explore these and other early termination possibilities.
What Happens If You Face A Violation?
Amid concerns about a probation violation, experienced legal representation is crucial. A skilled attorney can examine the allegations and the evidence against you for the information necessary to build a defense strategy. For example, if there were mitigating circumstances or you accidentally violated your probation terms, your lawyer can include these in your defense.
Attorney Wetter can provide this invaluable service and also represent you during any necessary hearings. These hearings allow him to present evidence and possible defenses, such as proving compliance or disputing the accusations against you. The timeline for resolving a probation violation depends on the complexity of the case. Potential outcomes range from reinstatement of probation to more severe penalties.
Florida’s probation system offers opportunities for rehabilitation, but violations can carry significant risks. Understanding your rights, the consequences, and the legal processes involved can make a difference in your case. The earlier you seek knowledgeable legal guidance, the more likely the odds of obtaining a favorable outcome.
Knowledgeable And Proactive Representation
Steven has practiced as a criminal defense lawyer in the Fort Myers and Cape Coral area for more than 20 years. Before that, he prosecuted thousands of misdemeanors and felonies as an assistant state attorney. He knows that judges take probation violations seriously – almost personally. If the judge determines your violation was “willful and substantial,” he or she can send you to jail or impose even stricter probation terms.
There are two ways to violate probation: technical violations (defying the terms of the probation) or law violations (an arrest for a new crime). Steven has helped clients overcome both types of violations, including:
- New criminal charges
- Absconding (failing to notify the court of your whereabouts)
- Failure to report to the probation officer
- Failure to complete treatment or classes
- Failure to pay fines and court fees
- Failed urine tests
He will help you explain to the court why you went AWOL (moved, evicted, hospitalized, etc.), that you are “back on the wagon,” or that you are now in compliance with all terms of probation. In most of his cases, Steven has convinced the judge to continue probation or modify it.
Speak With A Former Prosecutor
You should take probation violations seriously. Steven can assist. Call 239-347-9133 or contact the firm online to arrange a free consultation with an experienced Fort Myers probation violation defense lawyer.