Probation Violation Attorney Durango
Being accused of violating probation in Durango, Colorado can result in serious consequences including jail or prison time, making it essential to work with a skilled attorney who can protect your freedom.
Understanding Colorado Probation Violations
Colorado courts impose probation as an alternative to incarceration, allowing defendants to remain in the community while completing specific requirements. Probation conditions typically include regular meetings with officers, community service, drug testing, and avoiding new arrests.
Violation allegations can arise from technical infractions like missing appointments or substantive violations involving new criminal charges. With technical violations, the burden of proof is lower than criminal cases, requiring only a preponderance of evidence.
Types of Probation Violation Charges
Technical violations include missed check-ins with probation officers, failure to complete court-ordered community service, or not attending required counseling sessions near. Travel restrictions prevent leaving the state without permission.
Substance abuse violations involve failed drug tests or alcohol consumption when prohibited. New criminal charges represent the most serious violations, ranging from traffic tickets to felony arrests.
Recent data from the Colorado Department of Corrections reveals that technical violations account for nearly 60% of probation revocations statewide.
Potential Consequences and Penalties
Probation violation hearings occur before judges who have broad discretion in determining appropriate sanctions. Courts may impose additional probation conditions, extend supervision periods, or require residential treatment programs.
Complete revocation results in serving the original suspended sentence in county jail or state prison. Community corrections placement in the Durango area provides structured residential supervision as an alternative to incarceration.
Effective Defense Strategies for Violations
Challenging the accuracy of drug test results often reveals procedural errors or false positives caused by prescription medications. Barrie’s Georgetown University Law Center education and nearly eight years as a Deputy Public Defender provide deep understanding of testing protocols.
Demonstrating substantial compliance shows courts that defendants made good faith efforts to follow probation terms despite minor infractions.
Protecting Your Probation Status
Early intervention prevents technical violations from escalating into revocation proceedings. We work closely with probation officers to address concerns when violation reports are filed with La Plata County courts.
Our experience serving on former Governor Hickenlooper's youth justice initiatives provides insight into rehabilitation-focused approaches that courts favor. Understanding that probation violations feel overwhelming when your freedom hangs in the balance, we guide clients through each step with compassion and expertise. You don't have to navigate these complex proceedings alone.