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If you are on felony probation in Los Angeles, you must follow the rules or the courts could send you to prison. A probation violation can disrupt your life and undo the hard work you’ve done to better yourself and your situation.
If you face allegations of violating the terms of your probation, you will have to attend a formal probation violation hearing, where a judge will rule whether a violation occurred and decide on a penalty. A Los Angeles felony probation lawyer can advocate for an outcome that minimizes the consequences against you, including reinstating your current probation terms.
At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, we know the last thing you want is prison time. Let us help. Attorney Justin E. Sterling can help you through the legal process, identify potential errors, and ensure you receive fair treatment under California law. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
Why You Need Our Los Angeles Felony Probation Violation Lawyer on Your Side
Attorney Justin E. Sterling has over two decades of criminal trial experience and extensive insight into the probation process as a former Los Angeles public defender. He also has longtime professional relationships with local prosecutors, district attorneys, and courts, which can help as you navigate the legal process and discuss possible penalties or probation modifications.
Probation violation attorneys also know the probation rules and can look for legitimate defenses if a violation occurred and why it happened. They can also prepare you to appear in court so you know what to expect and all potential outcomes.
What Is Felony Probation?
Felony probation, or formal probation, is when a judge suspends a prison sentence for a felony conviction and allows you to serve your sentence in your community as long as you adhere to specific conditions. The terms for your probation depend on your case and the judge overseeing it.
Breaking the rules of your probation can lead to several penalties, the most serious being having your probation revoked and being sent to jail. If you are eligible for and receive felony probation, you must follow the judge’s terms to maintain your freedom.
Eligibility for Felony Probation
In most cases, felony probation is available to non-violent offenders and lasts up to two years. Examples of violent offenses that may disqualify you from being eligible for felony probation include:
- Murder or voluntary manslaughter
- Attempted murder
- Rape
- Robbery
- Threats to witnesses
- Kidnapping
Some violent offenders may still be eligible for probation if the judge believes they are no longer a threat to the community and agree to strict probation terms. For example, someone who committed an assault may be ordered to attend anger management classes and avoid situations where they could get into a fight.
One notable exception to the two-year probation limit is any offense that specifically outlines a different probationary period as part of its penalty. Additionally, if your conviction was for any of the following crimes and involved the theft of more than $25,000, your probation may last up to three years:
- Grand theft
- Embezzlement
- Theft by fraud
Terms and Conditions of Felony Probation
A criminal attorney for felony probation can assist you in understanding and adhering to the terms and conditions of your release from confinement. Some of the most common conditions set for felony probation include requirements to:
- Attend probation meetings
- Pay restitution
- Complete community service
- Complete counseling programs
- Pass drug tests
- Avoid contact with designated individuals
- Not re-offend
Consequences of Violating Probation
The consequences of violating the terms of your felony probation can range from mild to severe, depending on your original crime, the alleged violation, and the judge overseeing your case. The best-case scenario is for your probation violation defense lawyer to get the violation dismissed. However, other possible outcomes include probation reinstatement, modification, or revocation.
Reinstatement of Probation Terms
Other than having your violation dismissed, the best outcome is for the judge to reinstate the previous conditions of your probation. In short, this means that you get off with a warning. However, if you violate your probation conditions again, the judge may use this warning against you and impose a harsher penalty.
Modification of Probation Terms
If the judge decides that a warning isn’t enough, they may modify the terms of your probation. This means you must comply with stricter, more meticulously enforced rules. Depending on how strict the modified terms are, it can be extremely difficult for some individuals to avoid further violations.
Revocation of Probation
The worst-case scenario is if the judge revokes your probation and enforces your original prison sentence. This typically happens if you commit another crime while on probation or have multiple probation violations.
Benefits of Legal Representation for Probation Violations
Hiring a skilled probation violation defense lawyer comes with several advantages. Your attorney can
- Listen to what happened and advise you on what’s at stake
- Provide evidence demonstrating that you did not violate the terms of your probation
- Negotiate for reduced penalties for a violation, including the reinstatement of your probation rather than modification or revocation
- Argue for more lenient terms during probation modification
- Cross-examine witnesses
- Ensure your rights are respected at every stage of the process
Contact Our Los Angeles Felony Probation Lawyer
Accused of violating felony probation in Los Angeles? Hiring a criminal attorney to handle a probation violation allegation is one of the smartest things you can do. You’ll get a chance to explain the situation in court, and a defense lawyer can present the best possible case on your behalf and argue for realistic outcomes given the circumstances.
When heading to prison is on the line, don’t leave your fate in the hands of the prosecutor. Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling today for a free consultation with a Los Angeles probation lawyer.
