If you’re charged with drug possession while on probation and aren’t sure what’s going to happen, you need to be aware that the penalties may be more severe than for someone who isn’t on probation.
Caught with Drugs While on Probation. Now What?
Even if the crime isn’t related to your probation, it’s likely that your parole officer will report it to the judge. There are many factors that go into determining what happens next, including whether this is your first offense, drug-related or otherwise.
Regardless, receiving a drug possession charge while you’re on probation doesn’t have to be the end of the world. That said, you also need to understand that probation is a privilege and not a right. If you are on probation, and you will be held accountable.
Drug Possession Charges and Probation
If you have a criminal record or are facing other charges at the same time as your drug possession charge, you could be charged with violating your probation in addition to the new charges. This means that your probation officer will file a motion asking the court to revoke your probation status.
Sentence Enhancement
When you’re convicted of violating your probation terms, the judge could sentence you to extra jail time or other penalties in addition to the penalties that were imposed on you the first time you were convicted.
This may include longer jail sentences or other forms of punishment, such as community service or fines.
Other Possible Scenarios While on Probation
If you have a criminal record, it’s possible that the judge will add time to your probation. This means that you’ll be under supervision for longer than originally scheduled. However, this doesn’t mean that you’ll automatically go to prison.
When it comes to drug possession charges, judges have a lot of discretion when it comes to sentencing. For example, if you’re caught with drugs but there isn’t any evidence of intent or distribution, your sentence might be lighter than if you were caught selling.
Another important factor is whether you were charged with other crimes at the same time as the drug possession offense. If you’ve also been charged with theft or assault, then this could influence how long your sentence is if you’re convicted of possession, too.
Call Your Defense Lawyer ASAP
It’s important that you not panic over a drug possession charge while on probation because there are many different scenarios that could happen depending on the situation. It will be up to your lawyer to negotiate with the judge to get you as lenient of an outcome as possible.
Drug possession while on probation is a serious offense, so call Hoeller McLaughlin PLLC toll-free at 817-334-7900 or contact us via our online form, and we’ll help you determine how best to proceed with your case.