What Happens if I Get a New Charge While on Probation in California?

When you are placed on probation in California, the terms of your probation are decided by a judge and then enforced by your probation officer. Probation is essentially a second-chance system where violators are allowed to put off any designated jail time if they stay out of trouble. When you get a new charge while on probation, things can get messy, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doomed.

Your future after getting a new charge while on probation will depend heavily on the severity of your new charge, how forgiving your probation officer is, and what you were originally on probation for. An experienced Sacramento criminal lawyer from Crowell Law Offices can handle your case with care. We’ll do our best to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Violation of Probation Hearing

When you get a new charge while on probation, you will have violated the terms of your probation because probation involves staying out of trouble for a certain period of time. When someone violates probation, a violation of probation (VOP) hearing is held, in which the probation officer decides how to move forward with the situation.

Your lawyer can stand by you in this hearing and speak on your behalf to explain what happened, but it’s possible that you’ll be sent to jail for the violation. However, violators are often given second chances on probation before being sent directly to jail for their mistake. Whether you’ll be convicted of the new charge is a separate matter.

Trial for the New Charge

Regardless of whether you go to jail for the probation violation, you’ll need to go to trial for the new charge. In this case, your lawyer will need to build a defense to explain what happened, why you did or didn’t commit the crime, and proceed from there. Hopefully, the charges can be reduced or dropped. If convicted, the sentence will be added on to the previous charge already on your record.

Contact a Sacramento Criminal Attorney

A probation violation can be complex when you’ve been charged with another crime. Having an experienced attorney by your side through the process can ensure you’re supported every step of the way. To discuss your case with a Sacramento criminal lawyer from Crowell Law Offices, call 916-303-2800 or fill out the contact form below to schedule a free consultation.