Minnesota Probation Violation Lawyer

Probation is a court-ordered sanction imposed upon an individual as an alternative to serving time in jail or prison – or in conjunction to serving time in a local jail and/or intermediate sanctions. The purpose of probation, under Minnesota law, is to deter further criminal behavior, provide offenders with the opportunity for rehabilitation, and provide crime victims reimbursement.

Many judges view probation as a privilege and not a right. Many judges are not hesitant to revoke a person’s probation, execute their remaining sentence and send them to jail or prison. Therefore, it is very important to follow all conditions of probation the judge sets for you.

Violation of Probation

If an allegation of a violation of a condition of probation is made against you, you could be arrested and held in jail without bail pending the outcome of a formal probation hearing. Common violations of probation include, but are not limited to:

• Failure to remain law abiding (such as being charged with a new criminal offense);
• Failure to remain abstinent from drugs and/or alcohol;
• Failure to maintain contact with your probation officer;
• Failure to attend and/or complete court-ordered treatment;
• Failure to pay fines and/or restitution;
• Failure to abide by additional conditions set by the judge.

Probation Violation Hearing

If you are accused of violating a condition of probation, you are entitled to a probation violation hearing. You are entitled to have your lawyer present at this hearing to assist you in your defense. At this hearing, the State of Minnesota has the burden of proving you violated a condition of your probation by clear and convincing evidence. The standard of proof is less than the standard of proof required by a judge or jury to convict you of a criminal offense.

Both you and the State will have the opportunity to present evidence and/or testimony as to whether a probation violation has occurred. If the judge decides you have violated any conditions of your probation, you could have your probation privileges revoked and you could receive additional penalties in addition to the penalties you incurred when you were originally sentenced by the judge.
Penalties

Penalties for violating probation can include, but are not limited to: additional local jail time, being sent to prison, additional fines and fees, extension of the length of probation, the loss of a stay of adjudication/imposition/execution, additional court-ordered treatment, sentence-to-service, and community service.
Take Action Now!

Allegations of a violation of probation are very serious matter, which can carry very serious consequences. If you, or someone you know, are facing probation violation allegations in Minnesota, you need to hire the services of a qualified, passionate and knowledgeable Minnesota criminal defense attorney who will be your voice in the criminal justice system – ensuring your valuable rights are being protected. Probation violation cases can be complicated and stressful. You cannot afford to be without great legal representation.

Take Action Now

At the Law Offices of William K. Bulmer II, we have the experience to handle your probation violation case. We will provide you the sound legal guidance and counsel you need to fight your case. Call our Law Office today for a FREE, no obligation consultation at 612-384-7003.