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The Types of Probation in Pennsylvania

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Dec 28, 2018 | 0 Comments

Probation is a standard part of a sentence for most convicted crimes. The terms of probation, however, vary depending on the offense. A probation sentence typically allows an offender to remain in the community, but they'll be under the state or county's watch to ensure all conditions of the court order are met. In Pennsylvania there are different types of probation available for offenders. Here's a closer look at the various types offered and their stipulations.

Informal Probation

Also referred to as unsupervised probation, this form of probation is available to typically non-violent, low-risk offenders. For example, people who've been convicted of theft or drug possession may be sentenced to informal probation. Although this sentence is technically “unsupervised,” it's important to note that this doesn't mean that there aren't stipulations to abide by. It merely means that offenders aren't under the direct supervision of their own respective probation officer. But people who are sentenced with informal probation still are obliged to comply with the rules and regulations ordered by the court. These orders typically require offenders to pay fines and avoid breaking the law for the duration of the probation period.

Formal Probation

Offenders placed on formal probation, also known as supervised probation, must abide by more strict stipulations than those sentenced to its counterpart above. They are required to routinely report to a probation office, whether that be in person or by phone. Additional provisions include community service, drug testing, counseling, paying restitution to victims, maintaining steady employment and other repercussions depending on the crime committed. A violation of formal probation almost always ends in being arrested and sent to jail.

Intensive Supervision Program

IPS is distinguished by the others due to its rigorous provisions. It's so strict that it's been compared to house arrest. Although offenders sentenced to this program are not required to stay at home, they must see their probation officer a lot. This sentence typically involves attending at least 12 meetings with a probation officer every month, as well as random face-to-face interaction and phone calls at any hour of the day and any day of the week.

Shock Probation

When an offender is sentenced to this type of probation, they serve a short jail or prison term in an effort “shock” them into obeying the court-ordered terms. Once the imprisonment period is over and the offender is released, they'll be sentenced to another form of probation. But the catch is, if the offender breaks the realize even after being “shocked,” they will be sent back to serve a maximum sentence.

Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney

A significant part of being adequately prepared for your case entails seeking the help of an experienced attorney. A legal professional who defends criminal defense cases will know the ins and outs of the process and can get you on a course of action that ideally fits your needs. Attorneys with the LLF Law Firm  bring a wealth of experience to the table, as they have successfully handled numerous cases just like yours. But most importantly, our familiarity with the overall process can be a source of comfort for you in one of the most stressful times of your life. For more information about our representation or how we can help you, contact LLF Law Firm online or by phone today at 888-535-3686.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento passionately fights for the futures of his clients in criminal courtrooms in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania as well as in New Jersey and nationwide. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. With unparalleled experience occupying several roles in the criminal justice system outside of being an attorney, Joseph D. Lento can give you valuable behind-the-scenes insight as to what is happening during all phases of the legal process. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings!

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The LLF Law Firm Team has decades of experience successfully resolving clients' criminal charges in Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania counties. If you are having any uncertainties about what the future may hold for you or a loved one, contact the LLF Law Firm today! Our Criminal Defense Team will go above and beyond the needs of any client, and will fight until the final bell rings.

This website was created only for general information purposes. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice for any situation. Only a direct consultation with a licensed Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York attorney can provide you with formal legal counsel based on the unique details surrounding your situation. The pages on this website may contain links and contact information for third party organizations - the Lento Law Firm does not necessarily endorse these organizations nor the materials contained on their website. In Pennsylvania, Attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout Pennsylvania's 67 counties, including, but not limited to Philadelphia, Allegheny, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Schuylkill, and York County. In New Jersey, attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout New Jersey's 21 counties: Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren County, In New York, Attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout New York's 62 counties. Outside of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, unless attorney Joseph D. Lento is admitted pro hac vice if needed, his assistance may not constitute legal advice or the practice of law. The decision to hire an attorney in Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania counties, New Jersey, New York, or nationwide should not be made solely on the strength of an advertisement. We invite you to contact the Lento Law Firm directly to inquire about our specific qualifications and experience. Communicating with the Lento Law Firm by email, phone, or fax does not create an attorney-client relationship. The Lento Law Firm will serve as your official legal counsel upon a formal agreement from both parties. Any information sent to the Lento Law Firm before an attorney-client relationship is made is done on a non-confidential basis.

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