Berkley, MI Probation Violation Lawyer

Receiving probation instead of an alternative sentence is considered a legal privilege. Judges typically frown upon probation violations, seeing them as undermining their choice for a lenient sentence. If you’re accused of violating probation, having a skilled and committed attorney by your side is crucial.

Initial Violation in Berkley, Michigan

A probation violation charge usually arises when your probation officer identifies a suspected breach of your probation conditions. Examples of violations may include failing a drug test, skipping appointments, unauthorized travel beyond the county, failure to pay fines or restitution, and incomplete community service. Consequently, the probation officer notifies the court, resulting in either an arrest warrant or a summons to appear before the judge. In any case, you will appear before the judge, who will determine bond conditions and whether you can be released pending further proceedings.

Violation Hearing in Berkley, MI

Afterwards, your case will be scheduled for a violation hearing. Similar to a regular trial, there will be a prosecution and defense, and both sides will have the chance to present and cross-examine witnesses. However, unlike a standard trial, the judge, rather than a jury, will decide your fate. Furthermore, the burden of proof for your case will rely on a “preponderance of evidence” rather than “beyond a reasonable doubt.” If the judge concludes that there is a substantial likelihood, more probable than not, that you committed the violation, you may be deemed guilty.

Sentencing in Berkley
Upon a guilty verdict or acceptance of a plea deal, the judge has various sentencing choices. These might involve maintaining probation, modifying the terms of probation, extending the probation period, or revoking probation altogether. In felony cases, the judge also has the power to impose a prison sentence.

Contact us for Berkley, MI Probation Violation Charges

Probation violations are taken seriously, and you need a good lawyer in your corner to assure that you do as little jail/prison time as possible. Our experienced attorney at The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC can help you. We offer clients a free initial consultation. To discuss your current legal situation, call us at (888) 399-7979 or contact us online.

Probation Violation Attorney for the 44th District Court

The 44th District Court is located at 400 E. Eleven Mile Rd., Royal Oak, MI 48067

The 44th District Court judges are:

Honorable Andrew Kowalkowski

Honorable Derek Meinecke

Probation Violation Lawyer for the 6^th Circuit Court

The 6^th Circuit Court is located at 1200 N. Telegraph, Pontiac, MI 48341

The 6^th Circuit Court judges are:

 Honorable Martha D. Anderson

Honorable Mary Ellen Brennan

Honorable David M. Cohen

Honorable Jacob James Cunningham

Honorable Nanci J. Grant

Honorable Jeffery S. Matis

Honorable Cheryl A. Matthews

Honorable Phyllis McMillen

Honorable Daniel Patrick O’Brien

Honorable Yasmine I. Poles

Honorable Kwame L. Rowe

Honorable Victoria A. Valentine

Honorable Michael Warren