Have you been accused of violating your probation in Lakeland, Florida? If so, you might be worried about what happens next. A probation violation can lead to serious consequences that may affect your life for years. But don’t lose hope— a Lakeland probation violation lawyer at Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, can help you. Call us at (863) 688-4606.
We are a top-rated criminal defense law firm in Florida that will make your case a top priority. Our Lakeland probation violation lawyer, Thomas C. Grajek, has over 25 years of experience practicing law. He has always been a defense lawyer, never a prosecutor. This means he knows how the other side thinks and can challenge them effectively. He also understands the science behind legal processes, which helps him fight back on your behalf.
Contact our law office today for more information. We offer an initial consultation to review your charges and provide legal advice.
How Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney at Law, Can Help if You Were Accused of Violating Probation in Lakeland, Florida
Facing a probation violation can be scary and confusing. Law enforcement and probation officers might already believe you’ve broken the rules, even if you didn’t mean to. Fortunately, the law requires them to prove that you violated your probation. This gives a skilled attorney room to build a strong defense for you.
Our Lakeland criminal defense attorney, Thomas C. Grajek, is one of the most experienced and respected lawyers in the area. He knows the local courts, laws, and procedures inside and out. He will use this knowledge to help you throughout the process.
Here are some ways our team can help:
- Investigate your case thoroughly: We will look closely at all the details of your case. This includes reviewing the evidence against you and finding any mistakes or inconsistencies.
- File motions to strengthen your defense: We can file legal motions to challenge the prosecution’s case, such as suppressing evidence that was obtained illegally.
- Gather supporting evidence: We will collect any evidence that supports your side of the story, such as witness statements or documents.
- Work to have your violation dismissed or resolved favorably: Our goal is to get the best possible outcome for you, whether that’s dismissing the violation or reducing the penalties.
- Keep you informed every step of the way: We will make sure you understand your rights and options at all times.
- Represent you in all court proceedings: We will stand by your side at every hearing and fight for you in court.
When our Lakeland criminal defense attorney represents you, the state takes notice. We will do everything we can to build a strong defense and protect your future.
Call our law office in Lakeland, FL, today to get started with a case review.
A Brief Overview of Probation Violation Law in Florida
In Florida, probation allows you to serve your sentence in the community instead of in jail or prison. While on probation, you must follow specific rules set by the court. If you break any of these rules, it is called a probation violation, and it can lead to serious consequences.
There are two main types of probation violations in Florida:
Technical violations happen when you fail to follow the specific conditions of your probation. Examples include:
- Missing a meeting with your probation officer
- Failing to pay fines or restitution
- Not completing required community service
- Traveling outside the approved area without permission
Substantive violations occur when you commit a new crime while on probation. Being arrested or charged with a new offense can be considered a substantive violation. At that point, it may matter whether you were charged with a felony or misdemeanor.
Probation officers can report violations to the court. Once a violation is alleged, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a Probation Violation in Lakeland, FL?
If you violate your probation, the penalties can vary depending on how serious the violation is and your criminal history. Possible consequences include:
- Revocation of probation: The judge may end your probation and require you to serve the rest of your sentence in jail or prison.
- Modification of probation terms: The court might add new conditions to your probation or make the existing ones stricter.
- Extension of probation period: Your probation could be extended, meaning you have to stay under supervision for a longer time.
- Incarceration: You may be ordered to spend time in jail or prison, even if your original sentence did not include incarceration.
- Fines and restitution: The court may impose additional fines or require you to pay restitution.
It’s important to remember that in a probation violation hearing, the rules may be different from a regular criminal trial. The prosecution only needs to prove that you violated probation by a “preponderance of the evidence,” which is a lower standard than “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Collateral Consequences for a Probation Violation in Lakeland
A probation violation doesn’t just lead to immediate penalties. It can also have long-term effects on your life, known as collateral consequences. These may include:
- Difficulty finding employment: A violation can appear on your criminal record, making it harder for you to get a job.
- Housing problems: Landlords may hesitate to rent to someone with a probation violation on their record.
- Educational barriers: Colleges and universities might deny admission or financial aid because of your criminal history.
- Loss of civil rights: You may lose certain rights, such as the right to vote or own firearms.
- Damaged reputation: A probation violation can affect how others view you, impacting personal and professional relationships.
These consequences can make life challenging, so it’s crucial to address probation violations quickly and effectively.
What Defenses Can I Raise in Response to Probation Violation Charges?
You have the right to defend yourself against probation violation charges. Some possible defenses include:
- Unintentional violation: Showing that you didn’t mean to violate your probation. For example, if you missed a meeting because of a medical emergency.
- Incorrect accusations: Arguing that the violation didn’t happen as claimed. Maybe there was a misunderstanding or mistake.
- Procedural errors: Pointing out that the probation officer or law enforcement didn’t follow the proper procedures.
- Compliance with terms: Providing evidence that you did follow the probation conditions or that any issues have been resolved.
- Minor violation: Demonstrating that the violation was minor and doesn’t justify harsh penalties.
It’s also possible that your constitutional rights were violated, such as during an illegal search and seizure. Our experienced criminal defense attorney in Lakeland will carefully review your case to find the best defense strategy for your situation.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With Our Experienced Lakeland Probation Violation Attorney
If you’re facing a probation violation in Lakeland, Florida, it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
At Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, we have over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. We are passionate about defending individuals accused of crimes. Thomas C. Grajek has never been a prosecutor, so he is fully committed to fighting for your rights. He understands the legal system and knows how to challenge the evidence against you.
Contact our law office today to schedule your no-obligation consultation with a Lakeland probation violation lawyer. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and start building a defense tailored to your needs.
Lakeland Probation Violation Client Review
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Lakeland, FL Courts
- Polk County Court Reporter – 402 S Kentucky Ave # 390, Lakeland, FL 33801
- Circuit Court – 930 E Parker St, Lakeland, FL 33801
- The Sixth District Court of Appeal – 811 E Main St, Lakeland, FL 33801
*Disclaimer – we do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website.
Lakeland Probation Violation Blog Posts
Additional Lakeland Probation Violation Resources
- When court may place defendant on probation or into community control – The 2024 Florida Statutes
- Probation Revocation – NOLO
- Violating Probation & Potential Legal Consequences – Justia
Our criminal defense law firm in Lakeland also provides:
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Visit Our Criminal Defense Law Office in Lakeland, FL
Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law
112 E Poinsettia St
Lakeland, FL 33803
(863) 688-4606