Probation in Weld County, Colorado, is an alternative sentencing option, rather than serving time in the Weld County Jail. Colorado law permits a judge to order up to 60 days in jail as a condition of Probation for a misdemeanor, and up to 90 days of Probation for a felony. While a bit difficult to understand, the option for a judge to give both Probation and a short jail sentence, is available should the judge not want to punish someone too bad, but still send a message of what’s to come if the defendant does not treat Probation seriously. More jail is always an option for the judge if someone does not obey Probation requirements. Below are Frequently Asked Questions about Probation. If you have any questions you can call the attorney’s the O’Malley Law Office.
In Weld County, What is Probation?
In Weld County, instead of a judge sending a person to the Weld County Jail or the Colorado Department of Corrections, the Court will place the person on Probation. During probation, terms and conditions will be placed on the person. While this is often seen as a “win” for the defense team, it can be hard for people to meet the expectations of the terms and conditions. It is considered a “win,” because the probationer can maintain their daily life, be with their families, and go to work. However, there are times when a probationer may not have control over all their circumstances, and probation officers can be strict and unreasonable. If something goes wrong, you will need an experienced defense attorney when facing a Petition to Revoke or Complaint to Revoke Probation. Our lawyers know how to fight for the best possible outcome and keep you out of jail.
Is Probation Required to Be Supervised by The Probation Department in Greeley, Colorado?
The Probation Department does not always supervise every person on probation in Greeley, Colorado. For Low Risk Offenders, sometimes probationers will be monitored by a private company that holds a contract with the Probation Department. Juvenile offenders are sometimes monitored by a Diversion Officer instead of the Probation Department. Regardless, everyone on probation will be monitored by some agency or department.
What are the Fees or Costs While on Probation in Weld County?
An adult on Probation in Weld County must pay a $50 monthly fee that will be collected to cover supervision services. In addition, there are other fees, costs. If a victim suffered financial loss from someone’s crime, restitution costs will also need to be made. These payments will be paid to the Collection’s Office of the Court. If you cannot pay the fees immediately, there are often payment schedules to make sure the payments can work within your budget.
In Greeley, Colorado What is the Difference Between Probation and Parole?
The difference between Greeley Probation and Parole is easiest understood based on the time it is served. Probation is the actual sentence a judge gives. This happens right after sentencing. Parole, on the other hand, is served at the tail end of a prison sentence. Prison is also called a DOC or Department of Corrections sentence. The terms and conditions of Probation and Parole can be similar, however the reasons a person is serving them is very different. Probation is an option for sentencing other than jail time. Parole is a provisional release from DOC. Provisional means that you can be sent back to prison if you don’t follow the Parole rules.
What Happens After Being Placed on Probation in Weld County What are Probation Requirements?
In Weld County, after the court places you on Probation, you will be put in contact with the Probation Office. You will be given information about who your Probation Officer is, the terms of your Probation, and paperwork which needs to be completed. During your Probation you will work with your Probation Officer to fulfill your terms and conditions. Generally speaking, after you start Probation, your officer will be more strict in order to learn if you are capable of following the rules. Once you prove that you are treating it seriously, they will back off. If you are struggling with your Probation Officer or the terms of your Probation sentence, contact the O’Malley Law Office to have a criminal defense lawyer who can help you navigate your Probation.
In Greeley, Colorado, What Happens When You Don’t Meet Probation Requirements?
If you violate or cannot meet the Probation requirements, terms or conditions, a Petition to Revoke Probation or a Complaint to Revoke Probation may be filed with the Weld County Court. When a complaint is filed, the court will put out a warrant or issue a summons for your appearance. It will next schedule a hearing to determine if a violation has occurred and whether your Probation should be revoked. If you are facing a Complaint to Revoke Probation or a Petition to Revoke Probation, you will need a skilled attorney who can fight for you and has the experience to win your hearing.