If you or someone you care about is on probation, you already know how high the stakes can be. Probation is often granted instead of jail time, but make no mistake – it’s not a free pass.
There are rules, conditions, and strict expectations that must be followed. One misstep, even an unintentional one, can put your freedom at risk.
At Pakett Law, we’ve helped many people in West Palm Beach and across Florida navigate probation violations – and we know how overwhelming and scary it can feel.
Need advice from a criminal lawyer in West Palm Beach? Call Pakett Law today at 561-318-0531.
Here’s what you need to know.
Two Kinds of Probation Violations in Florida
In Florida, probation violations fall into two main categories:
1. Technical Violations
These happen when someone fails to meet a specific term of their probation order. These violations don’t necessarily involve committing a new crime—but they can still carry serious consequences.
Common examples include:
- Missing a scheduled meeting with your probation officer
- Failing a drug or alcohol test
- Skipping a court-ordered class or treatment program
- Failing to pay fines, restitution, or court costs
- Not showing up for a court hearing
2. Substantive Violations
These are more serious. A substantive violation means you’re accused of committing a new crime while on probation. And here’s something most people don’t realize: You don’t need to be convicted of the new crime to violate your probation.
Even if the charges are dropped or you’re found not guilty, you can still face probation violation proceedings.
A Real-World Example
Let’s say a young man named Marcus is on probation for a non-violent drug offense. He’s working full-time, staying sober, and checking in with his probation officer. One night, Marcus gets pulled over because his friend ran a red light while driving his car. The officer finds a small amount of marijuana under the passenger seat. It’s not Marcus’s, and the friend admits it – but Marcus is still arrested.
Even though he’s later cleared of the criminal charges, the arrest itself triggers a probation violation hearing. Why? Because being arrested while on probation can be seen as a substantive violation, regardless of the case outcome.
This is where an experienced criminal defense lawyer in West Palm Beach can make all the difference.
Why You Need a Defense Attorney Right Away
A probation violation hearing is not the same as a regular trial. The burden of proof is lower. The judge doesn’t need to be convinced “beyond a reasonable doubt” – they only need to believe it’s more likely than not that you violated your probation.
At Pakett Law, we fight to protect your rights by:
- Challenging the evidence presented against you
- Arguing for alternative penalties like modifying probation instead of revoking it
- Demonstrating compliance with other terms of your probation
- Working to prove actual innocence or lack of intent
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If you’ve been accused of violating probation – or think you may have – call us immediately. Early legal intervention can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Even if you’re not sure whether a violation has occurred, it’s worth speaking with a defense attorney before the situation escalates.
We offer a free initial consultation so you can speak with a lawyer, get honest answers, and understand your options without any pressure or cost.
Probation Issues? You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
At Pakett Law, we’ve represented countless clients facing probation violations across West Palm Beach and surrounding Florida counties. Whether this is your first run-in or you’re worried about a serious violation, we’re here to listen – and we’re here to help so you don’t have to manage law enforcement or the court system alone.
Probation Questions? Don’t Wait – Talk to a Criminal Defense Attorney in West Palm Beach Today
The bottom line is this: if you’ve been charged with a crime or are under investigation, the best time to hire a criminal defense attorney is immediately. Already arrested? You’re likely to have question too. That’s why we are here.
The earlier you have professional legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding critical mistakes, protecting your rights, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Remember – arrests are common in Florida, the legal consequences are serious, and having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer is essential to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you were charged with a serious crime in West Palm Beach or anywhere in the state of Florida, please schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. You can call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – which can benefit you in your time of need.