Wisconsin probation violation penalties

After you are convicted of a crime, one of the best outcomes you can get is probation. Whether this comes in lieu of jail time or after you serve part of your sentence, it can feel like freedom. Unfortunately, you still have conditions you have to meet to keep that freedom. Violating your probation can lead to a longer probation or even jail time.

Ways to Violate Your Probation

Any time a court places you on probation, it orders conditions you have to meet. Part of this includes checking in with your probation officer, appearing in court at scheduled times, and staying within a specific area during your probation. Violating any of these conditions can get you into trouble.

Other violations can also give you problems. Probation gives restrictions against both criminal activity and some social activity. Your probation order may prohibit you from contacting certain people, and will certainly prohibit drug use, possession of weapons, and committing other crimes.

Penalties for Probation Violations

The court has some discretion in imposing penalties for violating your probation. At a minimum, you can expect to have your probation extended beyond its original period. You can also have new terms added to your probation, giving you even more to keep track of doing. The judge can also revoke your probation and impose jail or prison time. 

The easy way to avoid going back to jail is to stick to the terms of your probation. This requires discipline and attention to detail. If you do violate those terms, though, you should work with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

If you are in the Madison, Wisconsin area, Eisenberg Law Offices can help you with your probation violation charges. Contact us online or at 608-256-8356 to help protect your rights and preserve the terms of your probation.