Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Out of state violation of probation help needed

I was placed on probation back in 1994 for 5 years for a 2nd degree possesion/controlled substance. My release was to be 1/5/99. After my sentencing, I returned back to Michigan where I had been living. I had 3-4 months to go with no problems other than traffic violations, and my probation was revoked from MI due to non-payment of my probation fines in FL. I was fortunate enough to have been tipped off that my probation was being revoked so I did not get arrested as I did not go see my PO in Mich as scheduled. I owed the courts about 300-400 dollars, and had completed all the other terms of my probation including all of my work hours.

I am now married and have been working as a Internet Programmer for the past 4 years. I have also stayed out of trouble as well. What can I do to prevent disrupting my life and ruining all that I have achieved so far? I don't know where to turn.

Thanks


Asked on 7/13/00, 6:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Neil O'Brien Eaton County Special Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Re: Out of state violation of probation help needed

So, you want approval for your Run-and-Hide lifestyle? You KNEW you were under court jurisdiction, and you voluntarily and knowingly turned your back on the court. Yes, the life you have led since then may have been trouble-free, which is admirable, but why continue to live life "on the lam"? Be responsible! Take care of your court obligations (pay the $ and stay in contact with your PO --- how much trouble would that have been over these past years?!?) and get on with your life! Depending on the judge, you might get off with no "punishment" for avoiding the court, but on the other hand that's not guaranteed.

I can't stand the "don't disrupt my life and ruin all that I've achieved so far" attitide you have. Probation is a chance to prove yourself to the court ... some of which you did, and some you didn't. The judge could have just put you in jail or prison back then, but didn't; you were given a break, but don't appreciate it.

If you are sanctioned for living life with your head in the sand, don't blame the Court, blame yourself for running away from your obligations. YOU made the choices that have put you in the situation you are in. You want a quick-fix absolution. That may work in the theological world, but not in the legal/secular world.

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Answered on 9/21/00, 1:51 pm


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