A Violation of Probation (VOP) can be either substantive or technical. A substantive violation means a new criminal charge and a technical violation means that a condition has been broken or not followed but there is no new criminal offense.
Violation of Probation Substantive Charge Dismissed
Violation of Probation - When does it end?
In defending violations of probation, a confusing issue for clients is when does the probation period end if there has been a violation affidavit or report filed and a warrant issued, or a warrantless arrest is made, or a notice to appear on the VOP is created. Until recently, the advice by a VOP defense attorney would be that the probationary period is tolled as soon as that warrant is issued, arrest is made or notice is issued.
Violation of Probation - First Time Observation
Recently, for the first time in this firm's history of defending violations of probation, a violation of probation report or affidavit included a speeding ticket as an alleged new law or substantive violation. Then, the judge then issued a warrant with no bond, presumably after reading this report or affidavit of violation of probation. They call it criminal defense practice for a reason, everday there is something new. I've been involved in the system since 2001 and this was a new one on me.
Illegal Search of a Probationer at a Traffic Stop
Many criminal or violation of probation cases start when drugs are found after search at a traffic stop or or other offenses are discovered via the stop such as violation of a curfew or license restriction. This is particularly problematic for people on probation. New criminal law violations are substantive violations, everything else is a technical violation of probation.
Early Termination of Probation in Criminal Cases
One option in Criminal sentencing is probation. Some people are not aware that there is an option to request to terminate or get off of probation early by filing a motion for early termination of probation. A probationer does have to file a written motion in the court and request a court hearing. Most judges will consider the motion to terminate probation early after half the time is served and all conditions are completed.
I have a violation of probation but it is "just a technical", what can they do to me?
While the law engenders many questions, one of the most common areas of confusion for probationers is the law on violation of probation or VOPs. Violation of probations can be alleged for either technical or substantive reasons. A new law violation, such as a new charge for possession of marijuana or DUI while on probation, is a substantive violation. Meanwhile, an example of a technical violation of probation would be testing positive for marijuana while on probation or otherwise having a dirty urine or screen. Failure to pay restitution or failing to complete community service hours are other examples of technical violations of probation.
