Several offenders are put on probation each year, usually as an alternative to jail time. If you are one of these individuals, you should be relieved. Probation is a more lenient consequence to criminal charges compared to doing time in jail. After all, no one in their right mind wants to spend time behind bars, so it comes as no surprise that most offenders accept and appreciate probation in lieu of incarceration.

Although probation can be easy with cooperation, it can still be a scary time for anyone, especially first-time offenders. For this reason, it is helpful, and often comforting, to know what probation will mean for you. Continue reading to learn what you can expect while on probation in Indiana.

Terms of Probation

The first element you should know about probation is the importance of obeying all the rules. There is a long list of rules and restrictions while on probation, all of which must be adhered to 100% or severe legal and financial consequences will follow. Depending on the county of your conviction and probation, the rules will vary. However, all jurisdictions enforce the general requirements of probation.

General Conditions of Probation Include:

☛ Offenders must obey all laws and refrain from all further criminal activity.

☛ Offenders must satisfy all court-ordered penalties, such as community service, fines, fees, alcohol and drug education courses, counseling, substance abuse rehabilitation, and more.

☛ Offenders must be present and on-time for all probation meetings with their assigned probation officer.

☛ Offenders must refrain from all alcohol and drug use.

☛ Offenders must refrain from being in the company of other convicted felons and criminals.

☛ Offenders must take and pass all drug screenings on the date they are scheduled.

☛ Offenders must remain in the state.

☛ Offenders must maintain full-time employment.

☛ Offenders must immediately inform probation officer of address and job changes.

Probation Violations

If you break any of the rules of your probationary terms, your probation officer will find you to be in violation of your probation. Whether you are 5 minutes late for a probation meeting, or caught in a routine traffic stop with a convicted felon in your company, you will face penalties for the violation regardless of how minor the infraction. It is important to have an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer on your side to help you navigate all your probation violation legal problems. They are your best chance at avoiding the maximum penalties for probation violations, such as hefty fines, extended probation, and even jail time.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for aggressive criminal defense against probation violations in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm has the experience, resources, and determination to build you an impactful defense to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your criminal charges and strategies for defense.