Probation Violation Warrant in Texas
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Texas
I was arrested about 2 years ago for a Class A Misdemeanor for which I pled no contest and was given 1 year of probation along with community service. I go to school full time as well as work full time and also have no transportation so I have trouble getting to my meetings. My probation was revoked last year due to a missed meeting but I went before the judge and he reinstated it. I missed another meeting in May because I had to go into work and attempted to contact my PO, whom I called probably 40-50 times and as well as leaving him a message. I have no money for a lawyer, can't really afford to go to jail when I have school starting in a little over a week and would really like to clear this up for once and for all. I know I should've just got it over with in the first place but thats just not an option now.
My questions are,
What is the best course of action for me to take?
If I turn myself in, how long would I be in jail for before I see the judge and would that count as a conviction?
If I did get the money, would I be able to pay off?
Would I be able to get my probation reinstated?
Thanks
Re: Probation Violation Warrant in Texas
You've been reinstated once. Twice is absolutely pushing it. Possible, but pushing it. It's misdemeanor, so the court could go either way. It kinda depends on what the offense is as well.
Your best course of action is to maintain compliance as best as possible up to your court date. At that time, you can still show the judge that you had a hiccup in your probation, but still maintained compliance as best as possible. Also, never miss your appointment unless your PO has given you permission. You can't maintain gainful employment is you are locked up.
I'm not sure how that works in TX. For a micdemeanor, we send a hearing letter to our defendants. For felony, we take you to court right away. Turning yourself in means that the judge could possibly set bail and have you sit until your hearing date, if you can't make bond. If you are found guilty, yes it is a conviction.
If you get the money, can you pay what off?
Again, it is possible to get reinstated, but you are pushing it.