Understanding Probation & Parole in Missouri
Probation and Parole. When you are convicted of a crime in Missouri, the judge may choose to impose a sentence other than jail time, or a prison sentence may be reduced or followed by a period of supervision. This process is known as probation and parole. Both options allow individuals to serve part or all of their sentence outside of incarceration, under the supervision of a probation or parole officer.
At Combs Waterkotte, our criminal defense attorneys work closely with clients to help them understand the probation and parole process and advocate for favorable outcomes, whether it’s securing probation instead of jail time or helping someone transition smoothly back into society after incarceration.
What Is Probation?
Probation is a sentencing option that allows a defendant to avoid jail time, instead serving their sentence under community supervision. It is often part of a plea agreement where a defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for avoiding incarceration.
In many cases, probation is granted to first-time offenders or for less serious offenses. While on probation, you must follow a set of conditions established by the court. If you violate your probation conditions, your probation can be revoked, and you may be sent to jail or prison.
Key aspects of probation include:
- Supervision: You are assigned a probation officer who monitors your progress and compliance with court orders.
- Conditions: The court will set specific conditions for your probation, such as avoiding new criminal activity, paying fines or restitution, maintaining employment, and attending counseling or substance abuse programs.
- Length: Probation can last anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the severity of the offense and the judge’s discretion.
If you complete your probation without any violations, you can avoid additional penalties and possibly have your conviction expunged from your record. However, a violation of probation conditions can lead to a probation revocation hearing, where the judge can decide to impose the original sentence or additional penalties.
What Is Parole?
Parole is granted to individuals who have already served part of their prison sentence and are being released early, under supervision, to reintegrate into society. Parole does not erase the prison sentence, but it allows the individual to serve the remainder of the sentence outside of prison, provided they comply with the terms of parole.
Key aspects of parole include:
- Eligibility: Parole is typically available to individuals convicted of non-violent crimes after they have served a portion of their prison sentence. The Missouri Board of Probation and Parole decides whether an inmate is eligible for parole.
- Supervision: Like probation, individuals on parole are supervised by a parole officer, who monitors compliance with the conditions set by the parole board.
- Conditions: Conditions of parole may include maintaining employment, participating in counseling or rehabilitation programs, reporting regularly to the parole officer, and avoiding new criminal charges.
- Revocation: If an individual violates the terms of parole, they may face a parole revocation hearing, which could result in a return to prison to complete the original sentence.
How a Missouri Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
The process of securing probation or parole, as well as defending against violations, can be challenging. At Combs Waterkotte, we have extensive experience representing clients in probation and parole cases across Missouri. Our criminal defense attorneys can:
- Advocate for probation instead of jail time if you are facing sentencing.
- Guide you through the parole application process and represent you before the parole board.
- Defend you in probation or parole violation hearings, ensuring that your side of the story is heard.
Get Help with Probation or Parole Today
If you or a loved one is navigating probation, parole, or a violation hearing, you don’t have to face it alone. The experienced team at Combs Waterkotte is here to help. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and provide the guidance and defense you need to protect your freedom.
Call us today at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you make the best decisions for your future and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
