Probation is one of the penalties someone may receive for committing a crime. If they are sentenced to probation, then they are not sent to jail but are monitored by a probation officer. They need to meet the conditions of their probation for the entire probation period. Because probation is offered as an alternative to jail, breaking probation could result in a jail sentence.
Is Probation Serious?
Yes, probation is serious. While probation means that you remain free and won’t be sent to jail, it does not mean you are out of the woods. If you break a condition of probation, you could face fines and jail time.
Some of the conditions of probation may seem silly or too controlling, but if you want to stay out of jail, you need to follow them. Breaking even one condition of probation can mean you are sentenced to jail.
What Are the Conditions of Probation?
The probation conditions will vary depending on the circumstances of your case. For example, if drugs or alcohol were a factor in the crime you committed, one of the conditions of your probation may be attending NA or AA meetings and drug or alcohol testing.
Here are some examples of conditions of probation you may be given:
- Restrictions on buying and possessing weapons
- Restitution fines
- Community service
- Regular reporting to a probation officer
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Retain employment
- Counseling or therapy
- Anger management classes or other appropriate classes
- Not crossing state borders
Will I Go to Jail If I’m On Probation?
In some cases, a defendant may have an opportunity to apply for probation in order to get their jail time shortened. The behavior of the defendant will be taken into account, as well as the circumstances of the original crime. If they are released early on probation, they will be bound to conditions of probation.
If you break probation conditions, you will be sent to jail. The conditions of probation can seem restrictive, but you will be subject to far more restrictions if you are in jail. Most people find it difficult because probation can be longer than the jail sentence. However, you can still see your friends and family, hold down a job, and it looks better on your criminal record.
What Are the Penalties For Breaking Probation Conditions?
The penalty for breaking any of the conditions of probation could be jail. Some of the conditions of probation may seem too controlling or arbitrary, but they are put in place to keep the public safe.
What Does a Probation Officer Do?
A probation officer’s job is to supervise people on probation. They will check if their needs are being met and if they are meeting the conditions of probation.
Your probation officer will be the person in charge of administering drugs and alcohol tests, home visits, and monitoring your behavior, but they are also a great resource for getting your life back on track. They can help you to find employment if you are struggling; they can point you towards rehabilitation services, counseling or therapy, support groups, and anger management classes if you need them. Your probation officer is the person who will report on your progress and rehabilitation to the court and make recommendations. They are ultimately there to help you to stay out of jail.