Hands in handcuffs, probation violation defense in Northwest Indiana

Probation Violations

Probation violation defense law firm in Merrillville, Indiana

Probation Violation Defense Law Firm in Lake, Porter and Jasper County, Indiana

A probation violation can put you back in front of the judge and put your suspended jail time at risk. Vollmer Law Group helps people across Northwest Indiana respond to a petition to revoke probation, for a flat fee so you know the cost up front.

Common reasons for a violation

A failed or missed drug or alcohol test.
Missing a meeting with your probation officer.
Not paying fines, fees or restitution.
Not finishing required classes, treatment or community service.
Leaving the county or state without permission.
A new arrest or charge.

What happens after a violation

Petition: the probation department or prosecutor files a petition asking the court to revoke or change your probation. A warrant may be issued.
Initial hearing: the judge tells you what violation is claimed and sets the next court date.
Evidence: we get the probation file, test results and any police reports.
Hearing: the state must prove the violation, and you have the right to a lawyer, to see the evidence and to present your side.
Outcome: the judge decides what happens next.

What the judge can do

If the judge finds a violation, the judge can generally:

Continue your probation, with or without new conditions.
Extend your probation, generally by up to one year.
Order you to serve some or all of the time that was suspended in your original sentence.

Explaining what happened, showing progress like a new job or treatment, and having a plan for the future can make a real difference in what the judge decides.

What it costs

The flat fee for a probation violation is 50% of the fee for the original charge. For example, if the original charge was a Class A misdemeanor ($3,500), the probation violation fee is $1,750. See our Fee Schedule for details.

Common questions

Will I go to jail for a probation violation?

Not always. The judge can continue or change your probation instead. The outcome depends on the violation, your record on probation and what you have done since.

Is a new arrest a probation violation?

It can be. A new charge can be filed as a violation even before that new case is decided.

Do I have a right to a hearing?

Yes. You have the right to a hearing, to a lawyer, to see the evidence against you and to present your side.

What should I do if there is a warrant for my arrest?

Call us. In some cases we can help you arrange to address the warrant with the court, which can be better than waiting to be picked up.

Where do you handle probation violations?

We handle cases in Lake, Porter and Jasper County and across Northwest Indiana, from our office in Merrillville.

Talk to us about your case

Call (219) 587-5641 or send a message below. Tell us briefly what the violation is and which county your case is in, and a staff member will call you back as soon as possible during office hours.