Probation in New Jersey allows you to avoid jail time, but there are specific conditions of release with which you must comply. To maintain this opportunity, it is necessary that you satisfy certain obligations:

• Stay out of legal trouble;

• Meet with your probation officer regularly;

• Fulfill any court-ordered community service;

• Pass random drug tests;

• Attend any counseling requirements; and

• Satisfy any other requirements of your probationary sentence.

If you can fulfill all of these specifications, you will be able to maintain your freedom outside of jail.

Probation Violations

If you aren’t able to satisfy all of the required conditions, however, you could find yourself in a tremendous amount of trouble; the court retains the option of revoking probationary sentences and demanding that you do the rest of your time behind bars. And in New Jersey, a violation of probation is considered a separate offense and could, therefore, actually add time to your sentence.

The most important thing you can do regarding your probation is to familiarize yourself with exactly what the court is requiring of you. It’s also important to know just what a probation violation looks like:

• Failure to report to your probation officer at scheduled meetings;

• Use of illegal drugs (many parolees are required to submit to random drug testing);

• Failure to attend a court-ordered drug or alcohol treatment program;

• Failure to obtain a job (parolees are usually expected to be socially productive, which includes working); and

• Failure to attend school (if you are a student).

Violating your probation – even if you do it unintentionally – is a serious matter with lasting consequences. A probationary sentence provides you with an opportunity that should not be squandered. If you or someone you care about is in danger of having your probation revoked, seek immediate expert legal counsel.

Call 973-686-9787 today for more information about Protecting Your Probation Status

If you need help protecting your probationary status, do not hesitate to contact the Law Offices of David W. Polsky today. David has decades of experience as a criminal defense lawyer and is committed to fighting for your legal rights. We’re here to help, so give us a call at 973-686-9787 or contact us online.