Texas Probation Revocation
You were arrested and could have faced jail or even a prison sentence, but you walked out of the courtroom with “only” probation. It’s better than jail but it’s not going to be a piece of cake. In Texas, probation can last up to two years for a misdemeanor or up to 10 years for a felony offense.
Probation usually comes with a long list of conditions and restrictions, like:
- Mandatory, periodic drug testing
- Mandatory counseling, therapy or a treatment program
- Getting and maintaining employment (which can be difficult if you’ve had trouble with the law)
- Mandatory community service, ranging from a dozen to a hundred hours (or more), and
Meeting with your probation officer on a regular schedule.
Miss an appointment and you could have consequences. Violate the terms of your probation – even accidentally or because of someone else’s error – and you could end up serving the jail or prison sentence you avoided the first time you were in court. Call Fort Worth probation violation defense lawyer Trent Marshall at The Marshall Law Firm: 817-435-4795.
Problems with Probation
A lot of people have problems with probation. It can seem that the system was designed to make you fail. You can’t get a polygraph or urine test scheduled. You miss a required visit because of work or illness. Life happens.
Don’t get discouraged but don’t let these problems slide either. Sometimes a parole or probation lawyer can make all the difference. Mr. Marshall can talk to the parole or probation officer on your behalf, explaining the circumstances and possibly negotiating an alternative that will keep you out of jail.
Probation Revocation Hearing
In most cases, if you violate probation the District Attorney will proceed with an MTR (motion to revoke), or a probation revocation hearing. Unlike a typical criminal case, the standard this court uses to convict a person of a probation violation is “proof by a preponderance of the evidence” (not “proof beyond a reasonable doubt”). That’s a much lower standard so it’s easier for the District Attorney to prove to the judge that a violation occurred.
Probation Violation Defense Lawyer
It’s crucial to retain an attorney who is knowledgeable and has a track record of success handling Texas criminal cases involving probation and parole violations. Mr. Marshall served as commissioner for the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. He brings a depth of first-hand knowledge that can make a real difference in your case.
If you’ve violated probation, contact Trent Marshall. Call 817-435-4795 for a free consultation.
Traductor de habla española disponibles.
