Parole/Probation Violations

Advocating for those accused of technical violations
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Probation and Parole Violations in Pennsylvania

Parole and probation allow people convicted of crimes to serve their sentences in the community. However, there are certain rules and conditions that apply, such as periodic check-ins and mandatory drug and alcohol testing. Violating your probation or parole can come with serious consequences, including incarceration. At Gross McGinley, LLP, our criminal defense Lawyers help clients facing parole and probation violations in Pennsylvania understand their rights and advise them of their options.

What you need to know about parole and probation violations in PA:

Is there a difference between parole and probation?

Why would I be charged with a probation or parole violation?

Do I have to stay in jail if a judge issues a parole or probation detainer?

How can your criminal defense Lawyers help with my case?

What sets Gross McGinley apart from other criminal defense law firms?

     

 

Probation vs. Parole: What’s the Difference?

Probation is a penalty imposed as an alternative to jail or prison. Typically, defendants on probation must report to a probation officer, often weekly. While on probation, an offender needs to stay out of trouble, as being arrested for another crime could be considered a violation of their probation.

Parole is granted to defendants who have served a required portion of a prison sentence, provided they have exhibited good behavior while incarcerated. Parolees remain under correctional supervision until their sentences are completed. If you commit a crime or violate other terms of your parole, you’ll likely be returned to prison to serve the remainder of your sentence.

Our team can help you understand the specific terms of your probation or parole and how certain violations may affect you.

     

 

Common Types of Probation and Parole Violations

The terms of an individual’s parole or probation are unique to their case. Depending on the crime, defendants may have strict rules they must follow, while others may be granted more leeway regarding what they are permitted to do. Some of the most common parole and probation violations in Pennsylvania include:

  • Failing to check in with a parole or probation officer
  • Not attending a required court appearance
  • Failure to adhere to employment requirements
  • Leaving the jurisdiction
  • Breaking curfew
  • Failing to inform a supervisor of a change of address
  • Skipping or failing a drug test
  • Drug possession
  • Prohibited contact with a victim
  • Committing a crime

Authorities can arrest and charge people who fail to meet any supervisory condition of their probation or parole. During your first meeting with a parole or probation officer, you will discuss your conditions and sign a form to confirm you understand the terms of your sentence. If you have any questions at all, it’s crucial to ask the officer to clarify the requirements and prohibitions of your parole or probation.

Probation and parole violations can have grave consequences. If you’ve been accused of violating either one, you need an experienced, skilled defense Lawyer advocating for you. Our criminal defense Lawyers work diligently to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcomefor your case.

     

 

What is a Detainer?

In Pennsylvania, if you’re accused of committing a crime while serving probation or parole, a court may issue a detainer. This is an order that enables authorities to hold you for several weeks or longer while a judge determines whether charges for the violation will be dropped or if additional penalties will be imposed. You may be incarcerated for weeks or even months before your violation hearing, so hiring an experienced criminal defense Lawyer right away is necessary.

In most cases, judges have the discretion to decide whether to send a defendant to jail or prison. Our defense lawyers have a deep understanding of state and federal criminal law and are familiar with local prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement. We understand how to cultivate and present a convincing, vigorous defense.

     

 

How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help

Rules for probation and parole violations are often vague and can be open to interpretation, depending on the probation or parole officer in charge of your case. The nuances of criminal law in Pennsylvania can be hard to understand as well. Sometimes, case agents hold parolees and those on probation to unrealistic standards and try to impose terms that are not part of specified conditions. For example, if you have a valid Pennsylvania medical marijuana card and you’re found in possession or your drug test is positive for cannabis, your case agent may charge you with a technical violation.

If you believe you’ve been falsely accused of a violation, it’s vital to seek the advice of an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible. If the court has already made a ruling about a probation or parole violation, our criminal defense Lawyers can file an appeal on your behalf and represent you in court. At Gross McGinley, LLP, our parole and probation violation lawyers know how to create persuasive, effective strategies that get results. We’ve represented clients in all types of violation cases.

     

 

Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Lawyers?

Our legal team includes experienced criminal defense lawyers and Lawyers who have formerly worked as prosecutors, which provides diverse perspectives and a wide range of knowledge of criminal law in Pennsylvania.  Our parole violation Lawyers act as your staunch advocates and provide the competent, compassionate legal support you need. Our collaborative approach and dedication to staying on the cutting edge of developments in criminal law enable us to develop strategic legal solutions that meet your specific needs. Our clients-first philosophy is at the core of everything we do, and we always work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyers in Pennsylvania

If you or someone you love is facing a probation or parole violation charge, our experienced team at Gross McGinley, LLP, can help. For more than 40 years, we’ve provided forward-thinking legal representation built on a foundation of integrity, respect, and a commitment to continuous improvement. If you need assistance with a parole or probation violation case in Pennsylvania, contact us online or call 610-820-5450 to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense Lawyer.

Parole/Probation Violations Team

View Profile Gross McGinley Allentown Law Firm Attorney Michael J. Blum

Michael J. Blum

Senior Counsel
View Profile Gross McGinley Allentown Law Firm Attorney Robert M. Campbell

Robert M. Campbell

Senior Counsel
View Profile Lead Attorney Gross McGinley Allentown Law Firm Sara Hart Charette

Sarah Hart Charette

Partner
View Profile

Andrea Figueroa

Paralegal
View Profile Lehigh Valley criminal defense lawyer Philip Lauer

Philip D. Lauer

Partner

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