Texas Probation Law Information

One of the most pressing issues facing American society is what to do about our dangerously overcrowded state prisons.  Instead of building more and more prisons, one viable alternative is to move criminal offenders from prison to the community where they can be supervised by probation officers.

Probation law - Strict rules and conditions dictated by Texas

Probation is a sentence ordered by a judge instead of, or in addition to, a prison sentence.  Since Texas probation law is extremely strict about probation terms and conditions, the chances are very high that probationers will slip up and violate their probation.

The following are examples of rules that offenders must follow to avoid violating Texas probation laws:

• Do not commit a new offense
• Attend and complete required treatment or classes
• Pass drug testing
• Report to your probation officer
• Pay all fines, probation fees and/or victim restitution
• Complete community service
• Do not visit disreputable persons and places
• Maintain suitable employment
• Follow geographic restrictions and curfews
• Pay all fines, fees and restitution, as well as child support

Like parole violations, violating any one of these terms and conditions of probation can result in prolonged probation, or arrest and incarceration.  Despite the fact that those guilty of Texas probation violation can be put in prison, they do not have a right to a jury trial or lawyer, and the evidence against them does not have to rise to a level beyond a reasonable doubt as in criminal trials.  Violators may also be held without bail until they appear at their probation revocation hearing.

Probation laws in Texas - How they impact Texans

The sad fact about Texas is that this state leads the nation in the number of its citizens that are incarcerated, and the growth rate of its state prison system.  According to Bureau of Justice statistics, one quarter of Americans on parole or probation are in Texas, and California and Texas together comprise half the parolees and probationers in the nation.

Many Texas citizens find themselves caught in a revolving door between criminal justice supervision and prison.  Probation violators need to proactively seek out the assistance by a knowledgeable, experienced attorney, such as Texas parole lawyer Kevin Stouwie.  He can advise you of your rights and suggest ways to minimize the fines and penalties against you.

So if you or a loved one is looking for an attorney knowledgeable about Texas probation law or parole, please call Mr. Kevin Stouwie at the Law Office of Kevin Stouwie at 210.888.9548 or contact us online to arrange for a free consultation about your case.