Expert: Robin Sexton - 4/16/2008

Question
Hi, my friend has missed a few probation meetings at random. He went today and the arrested him for not showing up according to the schedule set by the probation officer. He is going before the judge in the morning and i just want to know what to expect. is there something i can do to help? Will he have a court appointed attorney? I am not familiar with the situation and want to do all that i can to help. I am NOT defending the fact that he messed up and didnt go regularly to his probation officer, but the situation is what it is and now i need some advice. Anything you can give me is greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

Answer
Lou,

Not a lot you can do.  A lot of what happens depends on a variety of factors.  The underlying offense, other probation problems, prior criminal history, etc.  Probation is a contract that he agreed to with the court.  If he violates the contract the court can impose sentence at anytime.  He probably won't have an attorney present.  Each  judge, court, state has varying rules and policies that they operate under.  The results of todays hearing could run from, don't do it again, sentence to a few days in jail, extend probation, cancel probation and finish your time in jail.

Sorry I can't be of more help


Good luck

Robin