November 27, 2017
A criminal defense lawyer may help you avoid incarceration in your criminal case by asserting good legal defenses to your charges or reaching a favorable plea deal with the prosecution. In some cases, the prosecution may agree to a period of criminal probation to keep you from being incarcerated.
Criminal probation in Florida is not a conviction. However, a violation of your criminal probation can result in harsh consequences. In most cases, if you violate your probation, a Florida judge will issue a bench warrant ordering your arrest—and that you be held without bail. In some cases, upon successful completion of your probation, you may expunge your criminal record if you do not have any other open or active cases in the Florida court system.
If you have been charged with a crime in Florida, probation may be a strong alternative to prison. Probation is normally granted at a Florida judge’s discretion. As such, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side representing you every step of the way. In addition to advocating for you in court, the criminal defense attorneys at Khonsari Law Group may review your individual circumstances and may assist in petitioning the Florida court to end your probation ahead of schedule.
Criminal Probation in Florida—General Facts
All Florida criminal probation matters fall within the jurisdiction of the Florida Department of Corrections. A judge may place a person on probation—as opposed to imposing a prison sentence—if the crime was not serious or if the judge felt that community service or some other punishment was more appropriate. The main purpose of criminal probation is to help the offender rehabilitate and become a law-abiding citizen and productive member of society. During the probation period, the offender must meet with a probation officer at certain intervals. Probation officers are appointed to act as mentors, to oversee probation, and to make sure that the offender is complying with all of the terms and conditions of the probation.
Terms and Conditions of Criminal Probation in Florida
The terms and conditions of a criminal probation are likely to consist of some or all of the following:
- Regular meetings with an assigned probation officer
- Restrictions on work
- Restrictions on travel
- Restrictions on contact with various individuals during the probationary term
- Drug testing at certain required intervals during the course of the probation
- Payment of fines and court costs
Contact a St. Petersburg, Florida, Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Criminal probation has many benefits and can be a welcome alternative to lengthy jail time. The knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers at Khonsari Law Group can review the individual circumstances of your case and explain all of your legal options to you. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a St. Petersburg, Florida criminal defense lawyer, please call us today at (727) 269-5300 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.