Knowing the probation laws and requirements in Florida is important if you are facing criminal charges in Miami or have been convicted. There are certain conditions that must be met, which a defense lawyer can explain.
Some of the conditions of probation are dependent on your case. But there are general requirements to which almost all defendants will be expected to adhere. For example, a probation officer will monitor you throughout the term of the probation. Violations could lead to an arrest.
An Overview of Probation Laws and Requirements in Florida
The following are some of the terms of probation:
- report to probation officers as required;
- allow probation officers to visit at home;
- maintain employment;
- support legal dependants;
- avoid individuals who are engaged in criminal activity; and
- do not violate any laws.
In some cases, probationers may be subject to random testing for alcohol or controlled substances. Individuals on probation are also prohibited from possessing, carrying or owning a firearm, and must clear it with their probation officer before obtaining any other type of weapon. The general probation laws and requirements in Florida also require individuals remain in a certain place specified in the probation.
Courts may also require the defendant to perform community service. Among the institutions where community service may be performed are the Humane Society of Greater Miami and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami. Community service may also be performed at one of the various hospitals across Miami-Dade. Before beginning community service, though, the site where you volunteer must be approved or hours served may not count toward the requirement.
It’s important to seek legal counsel since probation may not be the only part of a sentence. Discuss your criminal case in Miami with a defense lawyer to get a better understanding of probation requirements, as well as other potential punishments such as jail time, community service, fines, and more.
Eligibility for Early Termination of Probation
There is the possibility of probation termination before the court-issued final date. If probation laws and requirements in Florida were met, this may be a possibility if you have served at least half of your term, although that is not always the case.
A defense attorney can help with this by filing a petition to end your probation early and scheduling a hearing with the court. You can help your attorney by providing as much information as you can as to why your probation should be terminated early.
Holding steady employment for the duration of probation may be an example of something to include when filing your petition. Be ready to provide proof of what you have accomplished.
If you have done everything you should and not violated any of the probation laws and requirements in Florida, the outcome may be favorable. However, there are no guarantees in cases like this, so be prepared for either scenario. Discuss with your defense lawyer your eligibility for early termination to give you a better idea of what to expect based on your specific case details.
Seeking Help from a Defense Lawyer after Being Charged with a Crime in Miami
According to the Florida Department of Corrections, as of June 2010 there were 14,813 offenders being supervised through the Miami Circuit Office. While probation may not seem as serious as jail time, you could still have a criminal record that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Seek legal counsel with a defense lawyer at Falk & Ross in Miami who can explain your rights and what you need to do in order to meet probation laws and requirements in Florida. Call 305-741-6997.