Probation, which is an alternative to incarceration, is still a criminal sentence. If you’re on probation, the court will require you to meet with a probation officer on certain days at certain times. Usually, you’ll work out your appointments directly with the probation officer (or his or her office). You can’t miss your appointments, though. If you do, you could be subject to serious penalties under Wisconsin law.
What Happens at a Probation Appointment?
When you go to an appointment with your probation officer, he or she will check in with you to make sure you’re holding up your end of the deal. Because probation is an alternative to jail or prison, and because it’s still a sentence, you have to meet certain conditions. You may have to take regular drug tests, stick to a curfew or attend counseling or drug education classes. You’ll also have to make it to all your court appearances, and you have to stay out of trouble with the law while you’re on probation.
Will You Get in Trouble if You Miss a Probation Appointment?
If you miss an appointment with your probation officer, you can face criminal penalties. You could also have to pay fines or:
- Stay on probation longer
- Have your probation revoked, which means you’ll have to go to jail and serve the rest of your sentence there
- Be required to attend counseling or drug education classes
In some cases, your lawyer can help you by showing the court that you didn’t intend to miss your probation appointment. For example, if you have a genuine emergency or your car broke down on the way to your appointment, your attorney may be able to show the court proof that you tried but couldn’t make it – and in that case, the judge can make an informed decision on what to do next.
Ideally, if you know you’re going to miss an appointment, you should call your probation officer and ask to reschedule. You should never decide to skip it without telling your probation officer.
Did You Miss a Probation Appointment?
You may be able to straighten things out with your probation officer if you missed an appointment. However, you may have to go back to court – and we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 right now if you missed a probation appointment and you’re supposed to appear before a judge.
