Gastonia Probation Violation Lawyer

Gastonia Probation Violation Attorney

It’s very easy for misunderstandings to lead to being charged with a probation violation in Gastonia, North Carolina. Maybe you missed your curfew, or your drug test came back positive. Maybe you left the county temporarily or were accused of a new crime. No matter the situation, you need an experienced Gastonia probation violation lawyer to help you defend your rights and protect yourself.

When you are in danger of losing your freedom, you need a lawyer who understands the nuances of probation violation charges. Our team has the knowledge and experience you can count on when you need it. We will take the time to learn about who you are, how you ended up in this situation, and how we can address the problem. With more than 25 years of combined experience in criminal defense, our team can help pursue the results you and your family need. We work tirelessly for our clients.

Common Probation Violations in Gastonia

There are more than 84,000 people on probation in North Carolina. When people are supervised, they must follow certain rules, which are established on a case-by-case basis when probation is imposed. Violating the conditions of your probation can lead to more charges and possibly jail time. Here are some of the most common probation violations: 

• Failed drug tests. Many individuals on probation are required to submit to periodic drug testing, and a failed test can constitute a violation.

• Missed meetings. People on probation are supposed to meet with their probation officers at prearranged times. Failure to appear at a probation meeting is usually considered a violation.

• Missing restitution or fine payments. Some people set up monthly or periodic payments toward court-ordered fines or restitution. Missing these payments can be considered a violation, especially if you do it on purpose.

These are just a few of the most common ways individuals in North Carolina might violate the terms of their probation. If you think you might run into trouble because of a probation violation, you should secure legal counsel immediately.

Hire a Probation Violation Lawyer

The most important thing you can do for yourself if you have violated your probation or if you have been accused of doing so is to hire a probation violation lawyer. At The Ratchford Law Firm, I have what it takes to help you face this challenge.

Investigating All Options For Your Defense

Depending on your situation, we may be able to use different defenses on your behalf. Here are a few of the important questions we can ask to decide how to defend you against your charges:

• Did you receive proper notice? Under North Carolina law, you must be given written notice clearly stating the terms of your probation. You must also be given written notice of any changes to those original conditions.
• Was the violation intentional? If the violation was not willful, or if you had a valid reason, it should not count against you. (For example, you may not have been able to check in with your probation officer because you were in the hospital at the time.)
• Did the court have jurisdiction? Except under certain conditions, the court loses authority over you as soon as the probation period ends.
• Were the conditions inappropriate or invalid? The judge can only order you to abide by conditions that are reasonable and necessary. He or she cannot lawfully order you to go to church or get married, for instance.

FAQs About Gastonia, NC Probation Violation Law

What Happens if I Continually Miss Probation Meetings?

If you continually miss meetings with your probation officer, that behavior may be considered absconding. Absconding is when a person on probation disappears, stops communicating with their assigned officer, or leaves the area without getting permission to do so. Absconding is considered a serious probation violation and could lead to revocation or modification of your probation terms.

If I Violate My Probation, Could I Be Sent to Jail for My Original Offense?

If you violate the terms of your probation, it is possible for you to be sent to jail for the original offense that warranted the probation in the first place. This usually only happens in cases of severe probation violations, such as absconding, but it is usually up to the judge presiding over your case how serious the consequences of your violation are.

Where Do People in Gastonia Go to Meet Their Probation Officers?

When people in Gastonia are on probation, they usually must meet with their probation officers on a routine schedule. Rather than the courthouse, these meetings typically take place at a probation office. In Gastonia, most people on probation meet their officers at the Gastonia Probation and Parole Department office located at 410 West Franklin Boulevard.

How Much Does a Probation Violation Attorney Cost in Gastonia?

If you need to hire a probation violation attorney in Gastonia, the costs will be dependent on several factors. The experience of the attorney, the unique circumstances of your case, and whether the outcome is mediated, arbitrated, or settled through litigation will all factor into the overall costs you could expect. It is important to ask any potential attorney about their specific fees and costs during your initial consultation.

Contact Gastonia Probation Violation Lawyer

At The Ratchford Law Firm, our team is dedicated to serving the needs of our clients. We will help you make legal decisions by counseling you with the information you need and deserve to make an informed decision. Contact our team today and let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.