Probation offers many people in Texas a second chance, a way to avoid jail or prison time while still being held accountable for their actions. However, violating the terms of probation, even unintentionally, can quickly turn that second chance into a serious legal problem.
At Guest & Gray, we know how stressful it is to deal with a probation violation or discover a warrant for your arrest. For these reasons, our team is dedicated to safeguarding your rights, freedom, and future.
Understanding Probation in Texas
Probation, referred to as “community supervision” in Texas, is a court-mandated period where a person stays in the community instead of serving time in prison. In exchange, the individual must follow a list of strict rules and conditions. These may include:
- Periodic meetings with a probation officer
- Passing drug or alcohol tests
- Paying fines, fees, or restitution
- Completing community service
- Attending counseling or treatment programs
- Staying away from certain people or places
- Not committing any new crimes
Texas recognizes two types of probation: deferred adjudication and straight probation (post-conviction community supervision). Violating either type can result in severe consequences, including imprisonment.
What Counts as a Probation Violation?
Probation violations generally fall into two main categories: technical and substantive. A technical violation may involve missing an appointment with your probation officer or failing to pay required fees. A substantive violation, on the other hand, involves being arrested for a new offense while on probation.
Common examples of probation violations in Texas include:
- Failing a drug test
- Missing a court-ordered class or treatment
- Leaving the county without permission
- Not reporting to your probation officer
- Committing a new criminal offense
If your probation officer believes you’ve violated the terms of your supervision, they can file a motion to revoke (for straight probation) or a motion to adjudicate (for deferred adjudication) with the court. This can lead to a warrant being issued for your arrest.
What Happens If There’s a Warrant for a Probation Violation?
If a judge signs a warrant due to a suspected probation violation, you can be arrested at any time. In many cases, you won’t be eligible for a bond until you appear before a judge. That’s why it’s critical to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as you learn there’s a warrant, or even if you suspect one may be issued.
What Are the Consequences of a Probation Violation?
If the court finds that you violated probation, you could face a range of penalties, including:
- Stricter probation conditions
- Lengthened probation term
- Temporary jail sanctions
- Revocation of probation and jail or prison time
If your probation is revoked, the judge can impose the original sentence that was suspended when you were first placed on probation. For those on deferred adjudication, a violation can result in a conviction on your record and the full range of sentencing options.
Why You Need Guest & Gray on Your Side
Probation violations and outstanding warrants are not situations you should face alone. At Guest & Gray, we bring years of experience defending clients across Kaufman County and beyond. Our criminal defense attorneys know how to navigate local courts, communicate effectively with probation officers and prosecutors, and protect your legal rights at every step.
Whether you’re dealing with a technical violation or a new criminal charge while on probation, we’re ready to help. Our goal is to resolve your case in a manner that minimizes consequences and provides you with the best possible path forward.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been accused of violating probation or think there may be a warrant out for your arrest, don’t wait. Contact Guest & Gray today to schedule a confidential consultation. We can review your situation, explain your options, and work to protect your freedom and your future.
