Search Site
Menu

Probation: Ins and Outs

There are many possible outcomes when a person is convicted of a crime, one of them being probation. Probation is a period of time that you are released from custody with certain terms and condition you must follow. Generally, probation is a good thing because you don’t serve your full sentence. However, probation is not offered for every crime. Those placed on probation should understand that their freedom can be taken easily.

There are two types of probation. Supervised probation (formal) is when a person reports to a probation officer for testing and review of the terms and conditions of release. If they fail to comply, this can lead to an extensive amount of jail time. On the other hand, summary court is much more informal than supervised probation. With summary court, the person just needs to abide by the law and not commit any new offenses. Between the two, supervised probation is much more common.

Probation can be ordered by the court in two ways:

  1. The court can withhold any sentence and place the person on probation. If the sentence is withheld, the person will be brought back before the judge to be sentence if their probation is revoked.
  2. The court can impose a sentence but stay it for a period of probation. If this is the case, the person would automatically receive the sentence if their probation is revoked.

The conditions of supervision means the court orders you to carry out specific activities related to your crime history. These could include community service, attending classes, or paying restitution. These conditions are ordered by the court and the probation agent. If the probation is revoked, you are entitled to a probation revocation hearing. At this hearing, the judge must find you violated probation as well as it being so serious that revocation is the only necessary alternative.


 

At Hart Law Office, our criminal defense attorneys understand the distinctions surrounding probation and will work hard to defend against alleged probation violations. We can assist you in finding alternative to revocation, even if you have violated probation. Contact us for a free consultation

  • AUDIO: Richard and Eric Hart Interview 10/26/20 Attorney Arthur

  • Hart Law Office Videos
    About Hart Law Office
    Divorce FAQs

    Q: What is a divorce?

    A: A divorce is the legal termination of marriage. All states require a spouse to identify a legal reason for requesting a divorce when filing the divorce papers with the court. The reasons given when filing are referred to as the grounds for divorce.

    Read More ›
    Ebook Download

    Enter your email address in the field below and we will send you a copy of our FREE ebook.

    Reviews
    • yelp
      5.0/5.0

      Eric Hart is an experienced attorney who thinks and acts outside the box.  For those who have been falsely accused and are fearing the worst, Eric Hart has your back.  If you’re looking for a criminal defense or family law attorney, you should co...

      Read more

      Diane L.

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      I had a great experience working with Hart Law Office. Attorney, Eric Hart, was very professional, helpful, and thorough in assisting me with my sensitive matter. I highly recommend this law office for legal advice and assistance.

      Read more

      Ivana Brookins

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      I have found Richard to be fair over all with both parties in the capacity of a GAL. There is sometimes where he should not be as lenient in his recommendations, but that is just him using all his options.

      Read more

      Jennifer Holtslander

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      The Hart law firm is extremely professional and very consistent in successful results. All the attorneys at the firm have strong relationships with DA's and judges in both major SE Wisconisn counties. Would highly recommend.

      Read more

      Joey J

    • google
      5.0/5.0

      Young ambitious attorneys love it love it

      Read more

      Joe Jennings

    See all reviews
    Contact us

    Quick Contact Form