Managing Your Probation Violation
Individuals convicted of crimes in Virginia may be placed on probation by a judge. Probation, which has strict rules, allows you to serve your sentence at home, rather than in jail. Judges may attach harsher sentences to the original crime when probation guidelines are violated.
If you have violated a judge’s probation order, immediately engage a qualified probation violation defense lawyer.
This is not a situation to handle on your own. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help protect your future.
Probation violation attorney Cody Villalon has over 10 years of experience and has defended over 1,000 cases. His passion for the law and commitment to his clients, result in dedicated representation and strong defense services.
Have you been accused of violating your probation? If so, contact Cody at 804-316-0765.
Why Choose Cody as Your Probation Violation Attorney
Probation violations are serious. Penalties can be severe and impact you and your family. Engaging a savvy and experienced probation violations attorney should be your first action.
Cody Villalon is a valuable resource. Some of the reasons people in trouble reach out to him include:
- Extensive experience. For more than a decade, Cody has provided criminal defense services to individuals in need. His knowledge of the law is considerable.
- Impressive Reputation: When professional services are necessary, the best references come from past clients. Cody’s client testimonials communicate the quality and successful service he provides.
- Knowledge of the local court systems. Cody has spent considerable time in the local courts developing strong relationships and an in-depth awareness of their operations.
- Focused practice. Cody practices only criminal defense law. By narrowing his focus, he has honed his knowledge and developed an approach to service that safeguards his clients’ best interests.
Cody truly cares about his clients. His commitment to providing the highest quality legal defense services is compelling.
Cody Can Help You
The fallout from a probation violation can impact your entire life. You may face years in prison. The advice of a seasoned probation violation defense lawyer can make a tangible difference in your future.
The service Cody provides includes, but is not limited to:
- Meeting with you to discuss your case and identify your options
- Reviewing and analyzing court proceedings
- Authoring letters and briefs regarding your defense
- Interviewing witnesses
- Representing you in court
- Negotiating with the prosecutors
- Interacting with your probation officer.
Dealing with the accusations of your probation officer can be overwhelming. Working with an experienced and dedicated lawyer is your best defense against prosecutors who want to see you in jail.
Violating Probation in Virginia
Probation comes with a host of requirements, the extent of which depends on the type of crime committed and the judge’s sentence. Some of the most common requirements are:
- Reporting to your probation officer when directed
- Abstaining from drugs and alcohol
- Obeying the law
- Attending drug treatment programs
- Paying requisite fines
- Completing mandatory community service
- Adhering to all travel restrictions.
Understanding and abiding by the conditions of your probation is crucial. That said, violations happen. Then, it is up to your probation officer to contact the prosecutor. Before taking action, allow the probation officer to determine how the situation should be handled.
Small violations may result in a warning.
If your probation officer decides to prosecute, a violation hearing, like a criminal trial, will be scheduled. At that time evidence will be presented and you will have the right to provide a defense. This is where a seasoned probation violation attorney is valuable.
Cody will attend your probation hearing and mount a vigorous defense against the prosecutor’s claims. Do not try to defend yourself; the consequences may be severe.
Probation Violation Consequences
Depending on the severity of the probation violation, severe consequences may result. These may include:
- Probation extension
- A short prison sentence
- Revised probation terms (community service or additional fines)
- Revocation of your probation (longer jail time).
In 2021, Virginia amended their probation laws enacting fixed and short sentences for specific and technical probation violations. These new sentences are:
- First violation – No jail time
- Second violation – Jail time not to exceed 14 days
- More than two violations – Original sentence plus additional jail time.
Cody prioritizes keeping current with changes in the law and handles all cases accordingly.
Defending Probation Violations In Virginia
Each case is unique, but there are general defense strategies that probation lawyers use, including:
- Proving an honest mistake.
- Providing alternative sentencing. For example, in cases of drug/alcohol use, your Richmond drug possession lawyer may suggest enrolling in a treatment program or attending AA meetings.
- Offering a reasonable excuse.
- Negotiating a payment plan for unpaid fines.
In any situation, a skilled probation violation attorney can diligently defend you. Cody recognizes that mistakes happen; he has witnessed violations many times and knows how to address them.
Probation Lawyer Cody Villalon Answers Your Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals accused of probation violations in the future have many questions. Below, Cody shares questions he hears most often, along with his answers.
Do I need an attorney for my probation violation case?
Legally, no. But having an experienced probation violation attorney on your side can make a tangible difference in the outcome of your case.
I did not violate my probation. What should I do?
Mistakes happen. If you believe you didn’t violate your probation, immediately contact an attorney; don’t speak with the prosecutor or the judge without representation. You may say something to jeopardize your case.
If I violated my probation, how long will I go to jail?
Jail time is not an automatic consequence. Working with a knowledgeable probation violation lawyer who can negotiate with the prosecutors can minimize your sentence.
Will the judge revoke my probation?
Possibly, however, the decision depends on the initial crime and violation offense. We will work diligently to protect your probation status.
Contact Cody Villalon for answers to questions specifically about your situation. He is happy to sit down with you.
Contact Cody Villalon Today To Discuss Your Probation Violation Case
Probation violations are serious. You need a reputable probation violation lawyer in your corner. Cody Villalon’s knowledge, experience, and approach to service position him ideally to provide his clients with the service they need.
If you are accused of violating your probation, act immediately. Contact him at 804-316-0765 and learn how he can protect your future.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY CODY VILLALON
Cody Villalon is a criminal defense attorney in Richmond, VA representing clients accused of violent offenses and DUIs, and he specializes in serious criminal charges. He possesses more than 10 years of legal experience, has defended more than 1,000 cases, and has spent more than 5,000 hours in court. He is highly professional and well-respected by prosecutors and judges. [ Attorney Bio ]
