5 Little-Known Ways You Could Potentially Violate Your Probation

When a person is convicted of a crime in New Jersey, they often head to state prison for a term of incarceration. However, there are occasions when the prosecutor and/or the judge believe that a convicted offender would be better served by receiving a probationary sentence. In these instances, the offender is given the opportunity to avoid jail time while meeting certain conditions of their release. So long as the person on probation stays out of trouble, meets regularly with their probation officer, performs court-ordered community service, passes random drug tests, attends required counseling sessions, and adheres to any other obligations of their probationary sentence, they will remain free.

If the offender violates the terms of their probation, however, it could spell big trouble because the court could have the option to revoke probation and order that the offender head directly to prison for the rest of their sentence. Beyond that, violation of probation is a separate offense in NJ, which means that it could result in additional prison time for the violator.

Violations of Probation in New Jersey

The key to maintaining your freedom while on probation is to have a good understanding of exactly what is required of you by the court. It also helps to know exactly what constitutes a violation of probation.

There are a number of little-known ways that you could violate your probation, including:

Failing to Report

The number-one requirement of being on probation is to show up for appointments with your probation officer. These meetings will be scheduled regularly and they need to take priority over everything else on your schedule. Even showing up late to a single meeting with the probation officer could lead to you being warned or even reported for violating the terms of your probation.

Using Illegal Drugs

Many people on probation are required to undergo random drug testing throughout the probationary process. If you are convicted of a nonviolent drug crime in NJ and receive probation instead of jail time, you can expect to be ordered to take random drug tests. Failing a drug test, or failing to show up for a required drug test, will constitute a violation of your probation and could lead to your incarceration.

Not Attending a Drug Treatment Program

If you were convicted of a drug offense, or any other type of crime, and the court ordered you to undergo drug treatment as part of your probation, you need to keep in mind that this is not a mere suggestion by the court. You will be expected to attend the drug treatment program – or risk having your probation revoked.

Not Securing Employment

Probation is supposed to be a way for a convicted offender to continue being a productive member of society while also serving some form of punishment for their crime. That’s why people on probation are typically required to maintain employment during the probationary period. Moreover, you will need to be able to provide proof of employment to your probation officer.

Not Attending School

If you are a full-time student, you may not have to secure employment during probation. However, you will need to provide proof that you are in good standing at your university or college.

If you have been charged with a violation of probation in Atlantic County, NJ, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side. The experienced, aggressive criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of John W. Tumelty can help you fight your charges and avoid going to prison. Contact us immediately to schedule a free initial consultation.