Were you sentenced to probation after a misdemeanor conviction in McKinney, Texas? You still have important rights that deserve protection. The McKinney misdemeanor probation attorneys at Texas Defense Firm can help you understand the terms of your probation and how to stay on track.
With 200+ years of combined experience, our attorneys have helped countless defendants successfully complete probation and avoid further penalties or probation revocation. Whether you’re facing a probation violation or seeking early termination, we can help you fight every step of the way.
Contact our law office today at (972) 369-0577 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal rights and options while on misdemeanor probation.
How Texas Defense Firm Can Help if You’re on Misdemeanor Probation in McKinney, TX
Probation, also known as community supervision, is designed to give you a second chance. However, it also comes with strict rules that can be difficult to follow perfectly. A minor mistake can lead to severe consequences, including the possibility of jail time, making it important to have an attorney on your side from the start.
At Texas Defense Firm, we understand how local judges, prosecutors, and probation departments in McKinney, TX, handle these cases.
Our McKinney criminal defense lawyers can help you by:
- Reviewing the terms of your probation
- Defending you against alleged violations
- Negotiating with prosecutors
- Filing for early termination
- Providing ongoing support and legal advice
- Representing you at every hearing and court appearance
When a Collin County judge or prosecutor sees Texas Defense Firm on your side, they know you’re represented by a team with a reputation for determination and skill. Contact our McKinney misdemeanor probation lawyers today for an initial consultation.
Misdemeanor Probation in Texas
In Texas, probation for misdemeanors is considered a form of community supervision and is governed by Article 42A of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Probation allows you to remain in your community under supervision instead of serving time in jail. However, it’s not without its challenges or restrictions.
There are generally two main types of community supervision in Collin County:
- Straight probation: You are convicted of the offense but are allowed to serve your sentence under supervision instead of in jail.
- Deferred adjudication: The judge postpones entering a conviction. If you complete probation successfully, your case can be dismissed, and you may avoid a permanent criminal record.
An experienced attorney can help you understand what type of probation applies in your case and what it may require.
Probation terms can include:
- Regular meetings with a probation officer
- Paying fines, court costs, and restitution
- Community service hours
- Attendance at counseling and/or treatment programs
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Avoiding new criminal charges
- Staying within the county unless permitted to travel
Violating any of these terms could result in the court revoking your probation and sentencing you to jail. That’s why it’s so important to work with a skilled McKinney defense attorney if you’re accused of a violation or struggling to comply with the terms.
What Happens if You Violate Misdemeanor Probation in Texas?
When the probation department or your probation officer believes you’ve violated the conditions of your supervision, they may file a motion to revoke probation or a motion to adjudicate if you’re on deferred adjudication.
The following may take place after the motion is filed:
- A warrant for your arrest is usually issued
- You’ll have a hearing before a judge (not a jury)
- The judge will decide whether a violation occurred
Unlike criminal trials, the state does not need to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt in these hearings. Instead, the standard is lower – by a preponderance of the evidence, which means more likely than not.
If the judge finds that you violated probation, the potential outcomes include:
- Revocation of probation
- Jail time
- Extension of your probation term
- Additional fines and community service
- Modification of the terms of your supervision
Our McKinney probation violation lawyers can represent you in these hearings and argue for alternatives to incarceration if possible.
Early Termination of Misdemeanor Probation
If you’ve complied with all the conditions of your probation and demonstrated good behavior, you may qualify for early termination. Under Texas law, most misdemeanor defendants become eligible after completing at least one-third of their probation term or two years, whichever is less.
To qualify for early release, you typically must have:
- Completed all required community service hours
- Paid all fines and fees
- Stayed arrest-free during your supervision
- Maintained compliance with your probation officer
We can help you determine whether you might qualify for this option during your initial consultation. Contact our McKinney criminal defense attorneys today to learn more about your potential options for early termination.
Schedule a Consultation With a McKinney Misdemeanor Probation Attorney Today
If you’re facing a probation violation or believe you qualify for early termination of your misdemeanor probation, don’t wait to get legal help. The stakes are high, and acting quickly can make all the difference in protecting your freedom.
The criminal defense attorneys at Texas Defense Firm have 200+ years of combined experience and are ready to put that experience to work for you. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with a McKinney misdemeanor probation lawyer.
Visit Our Criminal Defense Law Firm in McKinney, TX
Texas Defense Firm McKinney
7300 State Hwy 121 Suite 400, McKinney, TX 75070
(972) 369-0577