Tips For Avoiding Probation Violations

 Posted on January 29, 2025 in Criminal Defense

While you are sentenced to court supervision, you have an opportunity to avoid or reduce your jail time and remain in the community. While you are on probation, you are much more free than you would be in jail, but there will be conditions you must abide by. Common conditions of probation include remaining drug and alcohol-free, reporting to a probation officer regularly, abiding by a curfew, and avoiding all contact with the alleged victim. It is easier than you might think to make a simple mistake that could get you re-arrested for a probation violation. Simply being around the wrong people or failing to plan ahead to make sure you have transportation when you need it can lead to a violation. You should be represented by an experienced Houston, TX probation violations attorney while you are under court supervision.

Avoiding Unintentional Cannabis Exposure 

It is easier than ever before to accidentally ingest cannabis products. Dispensary products that are purchased in legal states and (unlawfully) transported back into Texas often look like normal candy, cookies, or even sodas. Homemade cannabis-laced baked goods are sometimes set out at parties and not clearly labeled.

It is best to avoid spending a lot of time around people who use any drugs while you are on probation. You should be especially careful about what you eat when you are around people you know use cannabis, carefully checking all wrappers and avoiding homemade foods.

You should also take precautions to avoid consuming alcoholic beverages by mistake. Always check with your host if you are not sure whether a prepared drink contains alcohol.

Finding Reliable Transportation in Advance 

If you are required to report to your probation officer in person, attend a treatment program, or abide by a curfew, it is important to make a plan for getting where you need to be in advance. Do not assume someone will be able to give you a ride when you need one. Your probation officer may or may not be understanding the first time you are late for curfew because you missed the last bus or ask to reschedule a meeting because you cannot find transportation, but if it happens more than once you are likely to be charged with a probation violation.

Following Your Recovery Program 

If you are receiving treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to follow your recovery program closely. Attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly and take the program seriously. People who put in the work to recover from addiction are more likely to stay out of legal trouble in the future and successfully complete probation.

Contact a Houston, TX Probation Violations Attorney

Murphy & McKinney Law Firm, P.C. can help if you have been charged with a probation violation. Experienced Harris County, TX probation violations lawyer Doug Murphy understands how easy it is to violate the terms of your probation without meaning to and will fight for you. Contact us at 713-229-8333 for a complimentary consultation.