If you skip meetings with a probation officer, a warrant could be issued for your arrest. Authorities might also label you a “fugitive,” and this could pose a serious threat to your safety as officers actively seek you out. In this situation, it makes sense to simply turn yourself in. How exactly should you do this? Can a criminal defense attorney in Georgia represent you as you organize this meeting with local authorities?
What Happens if I Skip Probation Meetings in Georgia?
If you miss a probation meeting, you should immediately contact your probation officer and explain the situation. A single skipped meeting probably won’t result in your arrest, especially if it was an honest mistake. That being said, there is no telling what your probation officer will do. You should know that if you meet with your probation officer a second time, you could be arrested on the spot for the initial probation violation.
If you repeatedly miss probation appointments, you will face a warrant for your arrest. This means that law enforcement officers will start actively searching for you, and you will probably spend the rest of your sentence behind bars. For example, you might have missed your probation meetings 12 months into a 24-month probation sentence. In this situation, you could spend the remaining 12 months behind bars. Probation is a “suspended sentence,” and courts can “unsuspend” this sentence if you violate the conditions of your probation.
There are a few valid reasons for skipping probation. These might include a death in the family, a medical emergency, a car accident, or some kind of work issue.
Turn Yourself in With Help From a Lawyer
If you want to turn yourself in, you might want to do so with help from a lawyer. An attorney can check to see whether there are any warrants for your arrest. When a lawyer checks for this information on your behalf, it may be easier to avoid unnecessary issues. If you want to turn yourself in, a lawyer can also organize the meeting and ensure you enter custody in a safe manner. If you simply walk into a police station and turn yourself in, there is always the chance of some kind of dangerous misunderstanding.
Your Lawyer May Be Able to Mitigate the Consequences of Probation Violations
While negotiating on your behalf, a lawyer may be able to negotiate positive outcomes for your probation violations. Criminal defense attorneys work with the authorities on a regular basis, and they can use their connections to help limit penalties. Discuss your options with an experienced defense attorney in Georgia.
Can a Georgia Defense Attorney Help With Probation Violations?
Whether you have skipped meetings with your probation officer, failed drug tests, or committed any other probation violations, a criminal defense attorney in Georgia can help. With their assistance, you can turn yourself in with confidence and a sense of safety. Your lawyer can also help you mitigate the consequences of probation violations. Contact Lankford & Moore Law today to learn more about your options.
