Harford County Probation Violation Lawyer
A violation of probation hearing determines whether probation conditions were broken. Outcomes can include jail time on previously suspended sentences, striking of a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), or a civil monetary judgment that can affect credit and future sentencing exposure.
If you have a violation of probation in Harford County, speak with an attorney right away.
What's at stake?
If found in violation of probation, the court can impose part or all of your backup time. This can run consecutive to any sentence in a new case. Not every violation warrants maximum time—the court’s options depend on whether the violation is "technical" or "non-technical."
Penalties for "Technical Violations"
Under the Justice Reinvestment Act (JRA), technical violations (special-condition breaches that don’t involve a new criminal offense, violating a no-contact order, or absconding) carry presumptive caps: 15 days (first), 30 days (second), 45 days (third). A fourth technical violation can result in full backup time. Courts can exceed caps with findings but generally follow them.
Penalties for "Non-technical" violations of probation
Non-technical violations include new convictions, violating no-contact orders, or absconding (not reporting). These can lead to the full backup time. Even if a new charge is dismissed, the State can proceed in VOP on a lower standard of proof.
Minor civil moving violations like a speeding ticket typically do not violate probation.
How does a hearing on a violation of probation work?
VOP hearings are informal and the Rules of Evidence are relaxed. The State must prove a violation by a preponderance of the evidence. You may testify, present witnesses, and cross-examine the State’s witnesses—often your probation agent. If found in violation, the court hears mitigation before imposing any sanction.
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Call our 24-hour attorney line to reach Max Frizalone or Luke Woods directly, or use the contact page for a free consultation.
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6304 Woodside Court, Suite 110, Columbia, MD 21046
(410) 346-9384
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14513 Main Street, Ste B, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
(301) 720-1917