Canton, Michigan Probation Violation Attorney
Being granted probation instead of an alternative sentence is viewed as a legal privilege. Judges generally disapprove of probation violations, seeing them as undermining their decision to grant a lenient sentence. If you face accusations of violating probation, having a skilled and dedicated attorney by your side is essential.
Initial Violation in Canton, Michigan
A probation violation charge typically occurs when your probation officer detects a suspected breach of your probation terms. Examples of violations may involve failing a drug test, missing appointments, unauthorized travel beyond the county, neglecting to pay fines or restitution, and incomplete community service. Subsequently, the probation officer informs the court, leading to either an arrest warrant or a summons to appear before the judge. In either scenario, you will face the judge, who will establish bond conditions and decide whether you can be released pending further proceedings.
Violation Hearing in Canton, MI
Following this, your case will be slated for a violation hearing. Resembling a typical trial, both prosecution and defense will be present, affording both sides the opportunity to present and cross-examine witnesses. However, unlike a standard trial, it will be the judge, not a jury, who determines your fate. Moreover, the burden of proof for your case will hinge on a “preponderance of evidence” rather than “beyond a reasonable doubt.” If the judge determines that there is a significant likelihood, more likely than not, that you committed the violation, you may be found guilty.
Sentencing in Canton
Upon a guilty verdict or acceptance of a plea deal, the judge possesses several sentencing options. These may include maintaining probation, adjusting the terms of probation, extending the probation period, or revoking probation entirely. In felony cases, the judge also retains the authority to impose a prison sentence.
Contact us for Canton, 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 35th District Court
The 35th District Court is located at 660 Plymouth Rd., Plymouth, MI 48170
The 35th District Court judges are:
Honorable Ronald W. Lowe
Honorable Michael J. Gerou
Honorable James A. Plakas
Probation Violation Lawyer for the 3rd Circuit Court
The 3rd Circuit Court is located at 1441 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48226
The 3rd Circuit Court judges are:
Honorable Donald L. Knapp
Honorable Charise Anderson
Honorable Chandra W. Baker-Robinson
Honorable Mariam Bazzi
Honorable Christopher Blount
Honorable Bradley L. Cobb
Honorable Kevin J. Cox
Honorable Kiefer Cox
Honorable Paul J. Cusick
Honorable Prentis Edwards, Jr.
Honorable Wanda A. Evans
Honorable John C. Gillis
Honorable Tracy E. Green
Honorable Bridget Mary Hathaway
Honorable Nicholas J. Hathaway
Honorable Anne. M. McCarthy
Honorable Kelly A. Ramsey
Honorable Mark T. Slavens
Honorable Deborah A. Thomas
Honorable Regina D. Thomas
Honorable Margaret M. Van Houten
Honorable Shannon N. Walker
Honorable Darnella D. Williams-Claybourne