Atlanta Probation Revocation Attorney

Fighting for Your Right to Maintain Your Freedom

Not all crimes lead to prison or jail. Depending on the details of the crime, a judge may impose probation instead of incarceration. This alternative sentence is available in some misdemeanor or felony crimes.

Whether the probation term is a few months or several years, the probationer must abide by certain rules and stipulations. If they are suspected of violating those directives, a process is started that could end with the person being sent to jail or prison.

If you are accused of violating a condition of your probation in Atlanta, you need experienced legal representation right away. You need The Law Office of Ahmad R. Crews.

General Conditions of Probation

Felony offenses typically eligible for probation include shoplifting, second-degree burglary, and second-degree criminal property damage. The Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) oversees felony probationers. Misdemeanor probation (often for traffic violations including first-time DUI) is often managed by the local jurisdiction or contracted private entity with oversight by DCS.

General conditions of probation include the following:

• Report as directed to the probation officer
• Allow the probation officer to make home visits
• Refrain from using or possessing alcohol
• Avoid all drugs that are not prescribed by a doctor
• Pass random drug and alcohol screenings
• Make honest efforts to find a job
• Do not change addresses without the probation officer’s permission
• Do not violate any laws (local, state, or federal)
• Do not associate with known criminals
• Pay fines
• Pay monthly supervision fees

Other conditions can be required, depending on the specifics of the case:

• Take DUI or drug classes
• Take anger management classes
• Attend psychological counseling
• Refrain from contact with the victim
• Allow unscheduled and random inspections of their computer and other electronic devices

The probation officer must investigate any suspected probation violation.

Accused of violating your probation? Schedule a free consultation by calling (404) 777-0735.

Types of Probation Violations in Atlanta

There are three types of probation violations. Technical violations include not paying mandated fees or fines or not reporting to the probation officer. Condition violations include failing a drug screening, not attending required classes, or associating with a known criminal. The violation carrying the highest punishment is the commission of a new crime, referred to as a substantive violation.

Probation Revocation Hearings

If you are accused of violating any condition of your probation, contact us to begin working on your defense right away. Depending on the details, we might be able to demonstrate that no action should be taken. We also can negotiate an agreement with the probation officer and prosecutor to limit your exposure to significant penalties.

Atlanta’s Attorney Crews will vigorously defend your case if a probation revocation hearing is necessary.

Probationers in Atlanta are given an opportunity to defend themselves against alleged violations in a probation revocation hearing. Defense counsel can challenge the evidence presented and cross-examine witnesses.

In criminal court, the jury must be convinced of the defendant's guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.” The burden of proof is lower in revocation hearings. The burden is a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning the accused more than likely committed the violation.

A judge, not a jury, will assess the allegation and evidence. This lower burden means an increased possibility of probation being revoked and underscores the importance of having a skilled attorney represent the probationer in the hearing.

Possible Consequences of Probation Violations

Judges have considerable discretion over Georgia probation violation penalties. We can argue the extenuating circumstances surrounding your violation, that the violation is minor, or that you have otherwise been an ideal probationer. We have multiple strategies that can eliminate or reduce penalties.

Potential consequences we will fight against include the following:

• Extension of your probation
• Fines
• Extra community service
• New special conditions
• Incarceration

Fight Back Against Alleged Probation Violations

At The Law Office of Ahmad R. Crews, our No. 1 priority is to keep you from being jailed or imprisoned. Once you learn of the accusation, admit to nothing and call our office. The sooner we are on your case, the better we can minimize potential consequences.

Our consultations are free. You have nothing to lose. Reach us online or call (404) 777-0735.