If you were convicted of domestic violence in Orange County or anywhere else in California and you were placed on probation, you must “obey all of the laws” while on probation, or else it could mean trouble. Even if you weren’t ordered to abstain from alcohol, if you were convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), you would be in violation of probation. Why? One of the main rules of probation is the probationer cannot violate any state or federal laws –they must be a law-abiding citizen or face the consequences.
If you’re on probation for domestic violence and facing DUI charges, you’re in a sticky situation. Now, you’re concerned about the current DUI arrest, and the possible probation violation. If one of your conditions of probation included refraining from drugs and alcohol, you will likely be found in violation and you need the advice of a DUI defense attorney. Your lawyer will want to know specifically, “Was your domestic violence case alcohol-related?”
Probation Means There are ‘Strings Attached’
If you’re on probation, you know how this works. Probation always comes with conditions or “strings” attached. In California, common conditions, include:
- A mandatory fine
- Attend individual or group therapy
- Refrain from breaking any laws
- Cal-Trans roadside work or community service
- Mandatory attendance at a drug or alcohol program (e.g. AA meetings)
- A requirement that you remain gainfully employed
- A requirement that you stay away from the victim
- A requirement that you abstain from drugs and alcohol
If you violate any of the conditions of your probation, you will have to attend a probation violation hearing. If one of your conditions was to stay away from alcohol, and you were arrested for DUI, you can be sure the court will find out about it, and you will be brought before the judge.
Unfortunately, the burdensome conditions placed on probationers in California mean a large number of defendants violate one or more conditions of their probation. So, the courts are very accustomed to these types of cases.
Aside from failing to pay a fine or restitution, one of the most common probation violations is committing a new crime, such as DUI. You’re in a tough spot. No matter what, you need help to navigate this as strategically as possible.
To learn more about your rights during a probation hearing and your defenses in a DUI case, contact the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry for a free case evaluation with an Orange County DUI attorney.