When you have been charged with a crime, you may be wondering about the penalties you face if convicted. These often include incarceration, fines, community service, and more. Sometimes those who are convicted of a crime face probation. However, many people confuse probation with another program, parole. Here are the differences between probation and parole.
Parole v. Probation Programs
While parole is a program for individuals who have been to prison but are released before their full sentence, probation is actually a program that those convicted sometimes engage in, in order to avoid going to jail.
There are special supervising officers who oversee people involved with both programs. People involved in both programs are responsible for checking in with their officers on a regular basis, as required by their program. Both programs also require participants to follow specific rules, which may differ on a case-by-case basis. Sometimes these rules include the requirement of holding a job, staying away from known felons, and staying off of drugs (they may be regularly drug tested).
New Legal Issues Could Change Your Sentence
Additionally, anyone who is on parole or probation must avoid getting into any new legal issues. In some cases, facing new legal charges could mean that they are in violation of their program. If you are found to be in violation of your program, it could result in a significant change to your sentence. For instance, if you are on parole and you violate the rules, you could end up going to jail, where you would have to finish out the remainder of your sentence. If you successfully make it through the program without any violations or issues, you should be able to be released from your program on time.
When you are facing criminal charges, it can be an extremely worrisome time. You may not know what to do or who to turn to. Regardless of the specific charges, a conviction could greatly change the course of your life. That’s why it’s so important to understand what you are up against and to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Texas criminal defense attorney who will work to reduce or fully eliminate the charges against you.
The Attorneys at Ceja Law Firm Help Those in Houston Who Have Been Charged with a Crime
If you have been charged with a crime it can have very serious consequences. That’s why it’s so important that you act quickly in an effort to best defend yourself.
At Ceja Law Firm PLLC, we understand the serious nature of the criminal charges against you and the impact that they can have on your life. We also understand that time is of the essence. That’s why we will work to help you obtain the best possible outcome. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!
