Upon being convicted of a serious crime, one can often expect jail or prison time. However, the court may instead decide that a probationary period is a fairer sentence. Probation is a fortuitous second chance. Knowing how to avoid violating probation will allow you to make the most of this opportunity.
Be Transparent Regarding Life Changes
Maintain a clear line of communication with your probation officer regarding any life changes. Your officer will need to know your residence and place of work to keep current with your case. If you move or change jobs, you must make sure to document these changes and gain approval.
Stay Drug Free
One of the biggest challenges that people on probation face is abstaining from addictive or habit-forming drugs. The terms of your probation may prohibit even legal substances, such as alcohol or, in some states, cannabis. You can expect your probation officer to subject you to at least one drug test during this period. Failing a drug test during this time could lead to severe consequences, ranging from extended probation to jail time.
Drive Safely
Ohio State football coach Woody Hayes, infamously conservative in his approach to the offense, once remarked that there are three outcomes that can happen when you pass the ball, and two of them are bad. Think of driving the same way. You can reach your destination without incident, find yourself pulled over for a violation, or get into an accident. Speeding, reckless driving, and driving under the influence can become even more serious offenses on probation. If the police pull you over and decide to look over your car’s contents, they might not like what they find. Drive with the utmost caution and limit your time behind the wheel to what’s necessary.
Stay Out of Other People’s Trouble
A major part of how to avoid violating probation is to think long and hard about the company you keep. You don’t need to commit a crime to find yourself in violation of your terms—mere proximity is often all it takes. Stay out of situations where law enforcement could get involved—stay away from parties where there’s underage drinking and cut bad influences out of your life. Conduct yourself with extreme care and mindfulness. Remember to think of probation as a second chance. Second chances are rare, and third chances are rarer still.