Connecticut Probation Violation Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Helping Address Violations of Probation or Parole and Providing Assistance With Federal Supervised Release in Hartford, CT

A parole or probation violation can have serious consequences, including revocation of release, additional jail or prison time, and stricter supervision conditions. People who are accused of violating parole or probation may find it more difficult to defend against these charges, which is why assistance from a skilled lawyer is essential in these situations.

At Woolf & Ross Law Firm, LLC, we provide dedicated legal representation to people who are facing allegations of parole, probation, or federal supervised release violations. Whether you were accused of missing an appointment with your probation officer, failing a drug test, or committing a new offense, we can evaluate the details of your case and develop a defense strategy aimed at preserving your freedom. Contact our firm today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Understanding Probation and Parole in the State and Federal Criminal Justice System

Post Incarceration (State Criminal Justice System)

People who have served a sentence after being convicted of a crime in Connecticut may be released under one of the following conditions:

• Probation: A court-ordered alternative to incarceration that allows a person to remain in the community under supervision while following specific conditions.
• Special Parole: A period of supervised release that follows incarceration, administered by the Board of Pardons and Parole. People on special parole face stricter oversight and an increased likelihood of being found in violation if they fail to comply with conditions.

Violating the terms of probation or special parole can result in serious penalties, including immediate incarceration. People who are accused of these violations do not have the right to a jury trial, and the state does not have to prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt. Instead, the burden of proof is lower, making it easier for authorities to revoke a person's release.

Federal Criminal Justice System (Supervised Release and Federal Probation)

In the federal system, people released from prison are often placed on supervised release, which is similar to probation. Violations of federal supervised release can result in:

• Revocation of release and return to federal prison
• Extension of the supervised release period
• Additional penalties, including fines and increased supervision

Like state parole violations, people who are accused of violating supervised release do not have the right to a jury trial, and the burden of proof is lower than in a standard criminal case.

Common Probation and Parole Violations

Violations of probation, parole, or supervised release can be classified as technical violations or new criminal offenses.

Technical Violations

These violations occur when a person fails to comply with the specific terms of their release. Common technical violations include:

• Failure to report to a probation or parole officer
• Missing a scheduled court or supervision appointment
• Failing a drug or alcohol test
• Leaving the state without permission
• Failing to pay fines, restitution, or court-ordered fees
• Failing to attend court-ordered treatment programs or counseling
• Associating with known criminals or prohibited individuals

While technical violations may not involve new criminal activity, they can still result in severe penalties, including incarceration.

New Criminal Offenses

If a person on probation or parole is arrested for a new criminal offense, they may face additional criminal charges as well as a violation hearing. A conviction for the new crime is not necessary to be found in violation—simply being arrested can be enough to trigger a parole or probation violation hearing.

New criminal offenses that commonly lead to probation or parole violations include:

• DUI
• Drug-related offenses
• Theft or property crimes
• Domestic violence charges
• Weapons charges

Because an arrest can lead to an immediate violation hearing, it is critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Defending Against Probation and Parole Violation Charges

If you have been accused of violating probation or parole, it is important to remember that you still have legal rights. While these cases have a lower burden of proof than a traditional criminal trial, a skilled defense attorney can challenge the allegations and advocate for alternative penalties instead of incarceration.

A strong legal defense may include:

• Challenging the evidence: If the violation is based on a failed drug test or GPS monitoring report, it may be possible to dispute the accuracy of the evidence.
• Demonstrating compliance: Your lawyer may help you show proof that you followed the conditions of your release, attended required meetings, or completed required programs.
• Proving lack of intent: If a violation occurred due to a misunderstanding or unavoidable circumstances (such as a medical emergency), an attorney can argue that it was unintentional.
• Negotiating alternative consequences: Instead of incarceration, an attorney may be able to negotiate additional supervision, community service, or enrollment in a rehabilitation program.

Contact Our Hartford Probation Violation Lawyers

At Woolf & Ross Law Firm, LLC, we work aggressively to defend our clients against probation and parole violations. We understand that mistakes happen, and we will fight to protect your freedom and minimize the impact of a violation on your future.

Contact our firm at 860-290-8690 to schedule a free initial consultation. We offer multiple options for payment, including hourly retainers and flat fees. We can also take payments through all major credit cards. Evening and weekend consultations are available by appointment. Get in touch with us today to get legal help with your case.