Harassment and Simple Assault Charges on Probation: Understanding the Consequences

If you search what probation means on Google, this is what you will find: “the release of an offender from detention, subject to a period of good behaviour under supervision.”

So, by definition, it’s safe to say that probation means a second chance. It’s a way to serve your sentence outside of prison walls. Although you are free, probation comes with certain strict rules, failing which can land you back behind bars.

On top of a probation, facing new charges for offenses like harassment or simple assault can get quite serious and can completely change your life’s course. Therefore, understanding the risks associated with such charges is the key to protecting your future. So, if you are facing this situation, it will be wise to contact a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer immediately.

A Brief Overview of Probation

Probation is a supervision program that is ordered by the court. It allows an offender to live in the community under certain specific conditions set by the court. Some of the common conditions for probation include-

• Reporting to a probation officer regularly.
• Attending and completing some kind of community service.
• Attending counseling sessions.

Remember that probation is a privilege, not a right. And the court has the right to revoke it if the concerned person doesn’t follow the rules. However, such cases happen most often when the individual on probation commits a new crime.

It might happen that you have been falsely accused of the charges while you were on probation. In such cases, hiring a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can be a wise decision.

Consequences of Additional Charges While on Probation

Getting convicted of a new charge while on probation is a serious violation. It showcases the court that you are not following the said regulations. A summary harassment charge can seem minor, but it will surely be maintained as a new criminal offense. Simple assault charges can get even more serious, as the court will look at the case as a breach of trust.

First, your probation officer will likely file a Petition to Revoke Probation. This petition notifies the court of the new charges. A Gagnon hearing will be scheduled, which will be conducted in two parts. Gagnon I will be a preliminary hearing, which will determine if there was probable cause for a violation. And Gagnon II will be the final hearing, where the court will decide if you are guilty of the violation.

If found guilty, the consequences can be severe. The judge can revoke your probation, which means you could be resentenced for your original crime. You could be sent to jail or prison. Added to that, you will also have to face the new harassment or simple assault charges.

This means you literally have to fight two separate legal battles. Hence, your best bet is to get help from a seasoned lawyer. An experienced Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can help you build a defense strategy and represent you in both legal matters.

How Can Sean Logue Law Group Help?

Facing new charges while on probation is indeed scary. However, all it takes is a good Pittsburgh criminal lawyer to make the difference! And we at Sean Logue Law Group have a team of the most seasoned lawyers with extensive experience.

Here are some of the ways we can help you out-

• We will attend your Gagnon hearing and argue against the probation revocation. We can also present evidence on your behalf.
• We will help you fight the new charges. Our team will work day and night to defend you against the new harassment or simple assault charges.
• We will negotiate with prosecutors and work towards a favorable resolution. Our primary goal will be to minimize your penalties.

When your future is on the line, you need a strong advocate. Let our experienced Pittsburgh criminal lawyer team be that for you. Send us an email at sean@seanloguelaw.com, or contact us at 844.PITT.DUI to book a free consultation today!