Probation is a court order given to convicted defendants as an alternative to prison. Violating probation conditions may result in return to prison. Compliance with probation can lead to elimination of a criminal record. Probation requires the person to live a normal, lawful life and may include regular meetings with a probation officer, drug testing, and restrictions on certain actions. Some conditions require court-ordered treatment or community service.
Probation is a type of court order given to convicted defendants in lieu of or in addition to prison sentences and other punishments. Often, a person is granted probation after serving a portion of his prison sentence, in order to see if he can manage to live a law-abiding life. There are various probation conditions that vary regionally. Violation of any of the conditions of probation may result in return to prison and an extended sentence.
It is imperative that you read your probation terms carefully to ensure compliance. Terms of probation may vary depending on local laws, the type of crime committed, and other extenuating circumstances. Compliance with the conditions of probation can help a convicted person demonstrate their ability to live in society and, in some cases, even lead to the elimination of a criminal record. Consult a probation officer or legal professional if a particular condition is unclear to avoid violations.
The basic terms of probation require that the sentenced person do everything possible to live a normal, lawful life. Many require the person on probation to actively look for work and keep a job while on probation. Some areas will not release a person on probation until there is proof they have a place to stay and a plan to find gainful employment.
People on probation are often required to have regular meetings with a probation officer. These serve as formal checks on the person’s status and circumstances while on probation. A probation officer must be provided with any changes to address or contact information and may need to grant clearance before the convicted person can travel out of the region. Trial conditions may also require the person to comply with a probation officer’s request for drug testing and to cooperate with employment and rent verification efforts.
In many cases, someone who has been convicted and given probation is barred from certain actions. He may not be able to buy, own or use a firearm and may be prohibited from using, selling or possessing drugs or alcohol. In some cases, association with other known criminals may be prohibited. If the crimes have included molestation or other sexual allegations involving minors, a person on probation may not be allowed to associate with minors or be in the vicinity of schools or playgrounds.
Some probation conditions require the sentenced person to follow the guidelines set out in the sentence, including court-ordered treatment such as rehabilitation or counseling. An individual may be required to perform community service or volunteer work, which must be verified by a responsible member of the service organization. Failure to comply with these conditions may suggest that a convicted person is not serious about following legal orders.
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