By Collin County Criminal Defense Lawyer Jeremy Rosenthal
(972) 369-0577
Probation (technically called community supervision), is where the Judge suspends all or part of the sentence in a case for a certain period of time. In the probationary period, the person typically completes community service and other requirements such as classes or drug testing.
A person on probation in Texas must complete and abide by “terms and conditions” of probation. Typically a person cannot commit an offense against the State of Texas or any other state as a minimum. Other requirements range from requiring the defendant to report changes in address, changes in employment, and new arrests, if any.
Difference between Deferred and Probation
Deferred adjudication is where you have not been convicted. Probation is where you have been convicted for the offense. While on deferred, you must still complete community supervision as if you were on regular probation for most offenses. The terms can be used interchangeably, but they’re not really identical.
Probation Eligibility
If you’ve never been convicted of a felony in Texas or any other state you are usually eligible for probation. Convicted felons are tricky and it is best to consult a lawyer about your specific situation. Prosecutors have differing policies against offering probation for certain offenses such as drug trafficking, robbery, and crimes against children.
Can I have Probation Records Expunged?
No. Expunctions for cases above class C misdemeanors require acquittal or another legal bar to prosecution. You may be eligible for a petition for non-disclosure, however.
Is there Probation for Federal Offenses?
Yes, but it is likely that if you get probation in Federal Court that you will still serve jail at some point. There is no parole in Federal prison so almost the only way you can be released from prison without serving all of it is to serve part of it on probation.
Can I be Released from Probation Early?
Yes, you are generally eligible for early release in Texas state courts for probation 1/3 of the way through probation and if you’ve completed every requirement. There is no early release for DWI offenses, certain drug offenses, and sex crimes.
Can I do Rehab Instead of Probation for Drug Crimes?
It depends on the case and the willingness of the prosecuting attorney to all an arrangement like this. More often than not, a prosecutor or Judge may include the rehab as part of probation but not necessarily replacing probation altogether. This is the type of deal an experienced attorney may help you reach with the prosecutor.
What if I don’t Like my Probation Officer?
Do your best to get along with them even if that means swallowing your pride. They hold the keys to your jail cell. In their defense, probation officers have a very difficult job. The better you get along with them, the more they appreciate you… but they can be extremely damaging to your case if they think you’re a problem. If they become verbally abusive or play games you may consider involving an attorney though getting a different probation officer can be difficult.
Probation Violations
If you violate probation, your probation officer can cause a probation revocation proceeding (or an adjudication proceeding if you are on deferred) to occur. You’d be re-arrested and the only issue before the Court is whether you violated your deferred or probation. If the state proves even one violation more than a preponderance of the evidence, the judge can convict you of the deferred, or revoke your probation. If this is done, you may be required to serve all or part of the underlying jail sentence. Often on revocations, however, the judge may extend probation or take some lesser action.
*Jeremy Rosenthal is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas. Nothing in this article is intended to be legal advice. For specific legal advice for any situation, you should consult an attorney.