Probation Violation Lawyer in Denver, CO

Seek Legal Assistance with Suro Law

Your Go-To Denver Probation Violation Attorney

Probation is a form of supervised release imposed after a conviction. Individuals can be granted probation for the entirety of their sentence or after a certain amount of jail time. When placed on probation, the defendant must adhere to all of the terms of the probation sentence, which can include:

Timely contact with a probation officer
Avoiding contact with certain people or places
Maintaining employment
Successful completion of drug or alcohol treatment programs

If any of the terms of probation are violated, the defendant will be charged with a probation violation; in some cases, the sentence for this violation may be even longer or more severe than the original sentence. In other words, while a probation violation may not sound as serious as the original charge, a conviction can result in jail time, even if there was no jail time served on the original crime.

Probation Violation in Colorado: Reporting & Circumstances

What Constitutes a Probation Violation?

If a defendant fails to meet the criteria laid out in their probation statement, they will likely face legal repercussions. There are many rules and regulations surrounding probation sentences in Colorado, and these conditions vary on a case-by-case basis. Some of the most common probation violations include:

Committing an additional crime while on probation
Failure to adhere to court-ordered programs, such as drug/alcohol abuse treatment, domestic violence programs, or anger management
Failure to appear for meetings with your probation officer
Leaving the state without approval from your probation officer
Failure to fines or restitution in a timely matter or at all
Failure to report changes to your address or employment status
Breaking a restraining order

We urge you to avoid committing any “prohibited actions” while on probation, as this can ultimately result in much more serious consequences than your initial sentence. However, if you are facing probation violation charges, there are legal avenues available to you. Suro Law can help.

Who Reports a Probation Violation?

Probation violations are typically reported to the court by your probation officer (P.O.). Depending on the severity of the violation, your P.O. may speak with you directly, issue a summons, or have you arrested and brought to court.

In addition, if someone else becomes aware of a probation violation being committed, they may report it to the probation officer on the case.

What’s Next: “No Bond” Warrants & Revocation Hearings

If you do violate the terms of your probation, the judge assigned to your case may issue a “no bond” warrant for your arrest, meaning that you cannot post bail to leave jail once you are in custody. These warrants are meant to ensure the defendant’s appearance at their hearing and emphasize the seriousness of probation violations in the eyes of the court.

Once you have been brought in, the prosecutor will file a Motion to Revoke Probation (MRP), and you will face a second hearing, called a revocation hearing. This hearing is distinct from your original case hearing and pertains strictly to the probation violation at hand.

The revocation hearing is heard in front of a judge rather than a full jury. The prosecutor will begin by presenting evidence of a violation and your attorney will then have the chance to respond. Once the judge has heard from both parties, they will decide whether or not your probation is revoked. In some cases, the judge may rule that your probation can continue, albeit with some further restrictions in place.

If you need a lawyer to represent you during your probation violation case, Sure Law is here to help. David Suro is well-versed in Colorado probation laws and can argue your side efficiently and effectively.

Consequences of Probation Violation in Colorado

As noted above, the penalties for probation violation are separate from the penalties you received upon your original conviction (i.e. the crime that led to the probation in the first place). Common consequences can include:

Additional terms/conditions on your probation
Extension of the probationary period
Fines
Community service hours
House arrest
Jail/prison time
Complete revocation of probation

If you are facing probation violation charges, you don’t have to face them alone. Suro Law works diligently to explore all legal avenues available to you, challenge evidence when necessary, and advocate for minimal repercussions.

Colorado Probation Violation Defense Attorney

If you are facing charges of probation violation, having adequate legal representation is paramount. As your probation violation defense attorney in Denver, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and providing effective defense strategies tailored to your unique case. At Suro Law Firm, we understand the serious consequences that can arise from a probation violation and are committed to vigorous advocacy on your behalf. With our experience and knowledge of Colorado probation law, we will work tirelessly to guide you through the legal process with confidence.

Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Probation Violation Charges in Denver

What is the difference between probation and parole?

While probation and parole are both types of supervised release, parole typically occurs after a prison sentence has already been served. Parole is only an option for felony cases – individuals who are in prison for a felony may get released early on parole.

Probation, on the other hand, is an alternative to incarceration. This means that a judge will grant probation instead of sending a defendant to jail or prison.

That being said, both probation and parole have similar terms and can result in jail time if violated.

Can I travel while on probation?

Travel restrictions may be part of probation conditions. Always check with your probation officer before planning any travel to avoid potential violations.

What if I miss a meeting with my probation officer?

Missing a meeting with your P.O. is considered a violation of probation. That’s why it is essential to communicate any scheduling conflicts with your probation officer in advance to avoid potential revocation.

Can a probation violation result in additional charges?

Yes, a probation violation is a separate offense that may lead to additional criminal charges, intensifying the legal consequences you are already facing as a result of your initial crime. While probation violations may seem minor, they can have severe consequences. We highly recommend speaking with an experienced attorney to help guide you through the process and mitigate penalties wherever possible.

What is the best way to defend against probation violation charges?

Ultimately, we recommend hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney, who is well-versed in the ins and outs of probation violation cases. Remember that as the defendant, the burden of proof rests with the prosecutor, so you don’t necessarily need to prove that you are innocent. Instead, your attorney can work to show that the prosecutor has not proven his/her case with the evidence presented.

In some cases, especially for minor violations, it may be best to admit to the wrongdoing. Then, your attorney can work to lessen any charges or request that the judge give you a second chance and reinstate your probation.

Can I appeal a probation violation decision?

While it is possible to appeal the decision made during your revocation hearing, options are quite limited. Appeals are typically only granted if a procedural error of some kind was made during the process. If you do believe your probation revocation was unjust, contact Suro Law right away.

Probation Violation Lawyer in Denver, CO

Seek Legal Assistance with Suro Law

Your Go-To Denver Probation Violation Attorney

Probation Violation in Colorado: Reporting & Circumstances

What’s Next: “No Bond” Warrants & Revocation Hearings

Consequences of Probation Violation in Colorado

Colorado Probation Violation Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Probation Violation Charges in Denver

Protecting Your Second Chance: Probation Violation Attorney Near You

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