People who are on probation are free -- up to a point. Probation and community control in Florida still have several important conditions that probationers must meet, or risk going to jail. These conditions can be anything that the judge in the case chooses to impose, but commonly include:

• Meeting regularly with a probation officer
• Visits from the probation officer at home or work
• Not leaving the city, county or state
• Random drug testing
• Restrictions on the probationer’s right to own or possess a firearm
• Not committing any crimes

Failing to comply with any condition of probation -- even accidentally -- can result in a charge for a probation violation. That’s very serious, because probationers have fewer rights than other criminal defendants. They are ineligible for bail, can be forced to testify against themselves and face a lower burden of proof. The penalties for probation violations vary, but frequently include having the original sentence reinstated -- which may mean going back to jail or prison -- longer probation and more restrictions on your rights and movement. With serious penalties for even a minor violation, those charged should contact a West Palm Beach probation violation criminal defense attorney as soon as they can.

Because probation is so restrictive, many probation violations are truly accidental. Emergencies and overtime at work can easily lead to a charge for failure to report to an officer, the most common probation violation in Florida. If you are facing severe penalties for a simple probation violation, you should contact the South Florida probation violations defense law firm of Balliro as soon as possible. The sooner our Fort Myers probation violation criminal defense attorneys get involved, the better we can protect your freedom. With early intervention, we can often argue for penalties that better fit the crime and avoid further criminal charges before they are even filed.

With multiple offices throughout South Florida, Balliro handles probation violation cases from Miami to Fort Lauderdale to West Palm Beach. If you or someone you love is charged, we will do whatever we must to help -- whether that means quiet negotiations or a full-fledged trial. We understand that legal emergencies happen at all times, not just during business hours, so we are available to clients and potential clients at all times -- 24 hours a day, seven days a week and every day of the year. And we offer free, confidential consultations, so there’s no risk in meeting with us to discuss your case. To set one up, please call us toll-free at 1-866-ARRESTED or contact us online today.