What is Probation?

Posted by Corey L. Scott | Jun 24, 2022 | 0 Comments

Probation is a court-ordered period of supervision that requires an individual to adhere to certain conditions, such as abstaining from drugs or alcohol, maintaining employment, or completing community service. Probation can be imposed after a person is convicted of a crime or pleads guilty to a lesser charge. The length of the probation varies depending on the severity of the offense and the laws of the state in which the probation is imposed.

Probation provides offenders with an opportunity to reform and rehabilitate without serving time in prison. Offenders are monitored by probation officers who ensure they are following the conditions of their probation. If an offender violates these set terms, they may be subject to additional penalties, such as fines or jail time.

How Long Does Probation Last?

The duration of probation is set by the court and will vary depending on the severity of the offense, state law, and the offender's criminal history. For example, first-time offenders may be placed on probation for a year or less, while repeat offenders may be placed on probation for several years. Some states have laws that mandate minimum probationary periods for certain crimes. In contrast, other states allow courts to decide the length of probation on a case-by-case basis.

Offenders who complete their probationary period can sometimes have their criminal record expunged, meaning it is erased from public view. This can provide offenders with a fresh start and make it easier for them to find employment and housing.

Is There a Way to Get Out of Probation Earlier?

In some cases, an offender may be eligible for early termination of probation. This means that they are released from probation before their sentence is up. Early termination is typically granted to offenders who have completed all the conditions of their probation and have not committed any new offenses.

The decision to grant early termination is up to the court and will depend on various factors, such as the nature of the offense and the offender's criminal history. Some states have laws that allow for automatic early termination after a certain period, while other states require offenders to petition the court for early release.

How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me?

If you have been charged with a crime, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and explain your legal options. If you are placed on probation, an attorney can help ensure that you understand the conditions of your probation and take steps to avoid violating those conditions. Contact our firm today at (317) 623-4546 for a free consultation. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are here to fight for you.

About the Author

Corey L. Scott

Corey L. Scott, was born and raised in East Chicago, Indiana. Upon graduation from East Chicago Central High School, Corey attended Indiana State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology.  Upon graduation, Corey accepted a position with the Marion County Superior Court, Juvenile Division where he served with distinction for the next nine years, eventually being promoted to Director of the Youth Counseling Department. Pursuing his dream of becoming an attorney, Corey attended the Indiana University School of Law-Indianapolis.  While in law school, Corey was an Indiana Council on Legal Education Opportunity (ICLEO) fellow and participated in Moot Court competitions.  He also worked in the Marion Superior Court, Criminal Division as a bailiff and research assistant to the Honorable Tanya Walton Pratt, who serves as a Judge on the United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. Corey also served as an internship law clerk to the Honorable Judge, Margret G. Robb, at the Indiana Court of Appeals. Finally, upon graduation from law school, Corey had the distinct honor and privilege to serve as a law clerk to the Honorable Justice, Robert D. Rucker, who sits on the Indiana Supreme Court. Corey then became an associate with Mike Norris Law Office, where he specialized in bankruptcy law with a main concentration on working to assist families obtain a fresh start through Chapter 7 bankruptcy.  Still a young attorney, Corey then served as a public defender at the Marion County Public Defender Agency.  In this position, Corey gained invaluable trial experience by defending clients in a wide range of matters from misdemeanors to serious felonies on a daily basis.  It was also during this time that Corey discovered his passion for representing and serving "everyday people." An entrepreneur at heart, Corey established the Law Office of Corey L. Scott, P.C.  Since then, he and his staff have served the greater Indianapolis community and surrounding counties in several legal disciplines including: Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense and Family Law.  In keeping with his vision, Corey L. Scott, P.C., is a client focused, results oriented general law practice that endeavors to provide legal solutions for "everyday people" charged with a crime, dealing with financial crisis or going through a difficult divorce. Corey has also been active serving the greater Indianapolis community by participating in pro bono programs such as "Ask a Lawyer," the "Modest Means" panel program which allows individuals to afford legal counsel at a fraction of normal rates, Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic and the Heartland Pro Bono Council program. Corey is a proud member of the Indianapolis Bar Association, Indiana Bar Association, American Bar Association, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.

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