Violation of Probation

Protecting Your Second Chance

Probation is often seen as an opportunity to avoid jail or prison — a second chance to move forward with your life while remaining under court supervision. But if you’re accused of violating your probation, that second chance can disappear quickly. Judges have broad discretion to impose serious penalties, including sending you back to jail, extending your probation, or revoking it entirely.

At Jacob S. Solkoff, LLC, we know that not every alleged probation violation is intentional or criminal. Missed appointments, misunderstandings, or new charges can quickly spiral into a major legal problem. We act fast to protect your freedom, defend your rights, and keep you from going back behind bars.

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What Is a Probation Violation?

A probation violation occurs when someone on probation fails to comply with the court-ordered terms of their supervision. These violations fall into two broad categories:

• Technical Violations:
  • Missing a meeting with your probation officer
  • Failing a drug or alcohol test
  • Not completing community service or treatment programs
  • Failing to pay fines or restitution
  • Violating curfews or travel restrictions
• Substantive Violations:
  • Being arrested or charged with a new offense while on probation
  • Associating with known felons or criminal activity
  • Possession of illegal substances or weapons

Even a minor technical violation can result in a warrant for your arrest, and you could be held in custody until a probation violation hearing is scheduled.

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The Probation Violation Hearing Process

Probation violations are not handled like standard criminal cases. The burden of proof is lower — the prosecution only needs to show a “preponderance of the evidence” rather than “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This means the odds are stacked against you unless you have a knowledgeable attorney advocating for your side.

At your violation hearing, a judge will determine:

• Whether a violation occurred
• Whether the violation was willful or unavoidable
• What sanctions (if any) are appropriate

We prepare thoroughly for these hearings, present evidence in your defense, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for alternatives to incarceration.

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Our Defense Strategy

We tailor our approach to the specific facts of your case and the reason for the violation. Depending on the circumstances, we may argue:

• You did not violate your probation
• The violation was not willful (e.g., you missed a meeting due to illness or lack of transportation)
• You have made good faith efforts to comply
• The violation was minor and correctable
• Continued probation or a modification is more appropriate than revocation

We also negotiate with probation officers and prosecutors to resolve issues before a formal hearing is required — helping to avoid arrest or jail time altogether.

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What’s at Stake

If found in violation of your probation, the court may:

• Reinstate your probation with additional conditions
• Extend your probation term
• Order jail or prison time
• Revoke probation and impose the original suspended sentence
• Require participation in intensive supervision or treatment programs

The key is to act quickly. The longer you wait, the more options may be lost.

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Take Control of the Situation Now

If you’re accused of violating probation — or you think you may be under investigation — don’t wait to get legal help. At Jacob S. Solkoff, LLC, we take these matters seriously and respond with urgency and care. We’ll work to keep you out of custody, protect your record, and get you back on track.

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Schedule a Free Consultation

If you’ve been cited or charged with a violation of probation, don’t wait to take action. Call Jacob S. Solkoff, LLC at 617-286-2051 or Contact Us Online to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We’re ready to protect your rights — and your future.

Practice Areas

• Traffic Offenses

• DUI & OUI Defense

• Drug Crimes

• Gun Crimes

• Assault & Violent Crimes

• Resisting Arrest

• Witness Intimidation

• Violation of Probation

• Theft & Property Crimes

• White Collar & Fraud Offenses