The law requires that you receive a set of penalties when convicted of a crime. Such penalties generally include fines and jail time. Many crimes, however, also include another penalty – probation.
Probation essentially is a set of conditions that a defendant has to abide by for a period of time. They are issued by the court. What these conditions are will depend on a lot of different factors such as the type of crime
convicted of and what court is handling the case. If a defendant violates the conditions set by the court, a review hearing will be set and if it is determined that the defendant is actually in violation of the condition more penalties may be imposed, inclusive of jail, fines, work release, electronic home monitoring etc.
Probation requirements for domestic violence related convictions are strict, and include affirmative conditions and prohibitive conditions. Affirmative conditions are things that a defendant has to do in order to complete his probation term. An example of an affirmative condition in a domestic violence related case is the completion of a one year domestic violence batterer treatment program. Prohibitive conditions are those that, instead of outlining things a defendant has to do, it dictates what he can’t do. Prohibitive conditions in the domestic violence context often require a defendant to have no contact with a victim involved in the case.
Generally, the court that ordered probation will be in charge of monitoring it. That said, the court often assigns a probation officer to oversee the probationary period. Some probation officers are lenient, others not so much. Sadly, it is quite true that probation time can be one of the most frustrating aspects of a defendant’s case. It can feel as if it is invading a defendant’s space and curtailing his freedom. Some probation terms last several years, which can be difficult to swallow for those who find themselves under the watchful eyes of the court and their assigned probation officer.
If you (or a loved one) find yourself facing a DV related criminal charge, it is infinitely important to immediately contact and hire a Seattle domestic violence attorney. The Seattle domestic violence attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle domestic violence lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the criminal allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case. So, whether cited for domestic violence related assault, malicious mischief, property destruction or some other crime, protect yourself … call SQ Attorneys immediately at 206.441.0900.