Types of Probation and the Effects of Probation Violations

Posted By The Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 14-Jun-2013

Probation, commonly known in Texas as community supervision, is an alternative to incarceration that allows some criminal defendants to live and work in the community while meeting certain terms and conditions. Here is a look at the different types of probation and why you should contact seasoned representation if you have violated the terms of your community supervision:

Types of Probation

There are two general types of probation provided for in Texas: deferred adjudication and straight probation. Deferred adjudication allows a defendant to enter a guilty plea, complete a period of community supervision, and have the guilty plea deferred upon successful completion of probation. If you plead guilty for deferred adjudication, your record will not show that you have been convicted under Texas law. The key difference between deferred adjudication and straight probation is that successful completion of straight probation will result in a record of conviction.

Types of Violations

There are a number of terms and conditions associated with community supervision, which means there are a number of ways that you can violate your probation. Common violations include being charged with a new crime while on probation, failing to appear in court on a scheduled date, and failing to take mandatory drug tests or testing positive.

Effects of Violations

It can be easy to accidently violate your probation. However, the judge will rarely care about your reason for violating probation, because probation is often viewed as a favor granted to the defendant. The judge may impose penalties ranging from extending or revoking your probation to imposing additional fines and sending you to jail.

Do not assume that your criminal challenges are over once you are placed on probation. If you have violated the terms of your community supervision, contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass. We are experienced criminal attorneys who have represented clients throughout North Texas.