This is the first post in a series of articles discussing early termination of probation in Austin, Texas. In Texas, as in other states, probation is a common sentencing option in the criminal justice system. While probation, also referred to as conditional supervision, is preferable to incarceration, those serving a probationary sentence will be subject to certain conditions. Texas law gives judges the authority to terminate an offender’s probation early in certain circumstances. The ultimate decision remains in the judge’s discretion and will depend upon the specific facts of each situation. The goal of this series is to provide general information about Texas’ laws and legal processes relating to terminating probation early. If you are on probation and need assistance, contact my office today to speak with an Austin defense attorney.
In this series, we will address the following topics:
- Texas law regarding early termination of probation
- The process of seeking early termination
- The effect of terminating probation early
If you wish to terminate your probation early, it is important to have a general understanding of the following topics. First, Texas law gives judges the authority and discretion to terminate probation early in certain circumstances. While a court may grant the request, it is not required to do so. It is important to understand the minimum requirements for eligibility and the factors that may impact a judge’s decision. Second, before petitioning the court for early termination, one should review the legal requirements and process for doing so in Texas. An experienced criminal attorney can assist you in presenting the necessary evidence to a judge to strengthen your case. Last, depending upon the underlying criminal offense, early terminating probation early may have different impacts upon the offender’s criminal record and ongoing legal rights. Certain registration requirements or restrictions upon the right to own or possess a firearm, for example, may still apply.
If you are on probation and have questions about the early termination process, my office is ready to assist you. Contact us today to speak with an Austin criminal defense lawyer. My office also serves the cities of Rollingwood, Round Rock, Elgin, Jonestown, Manor, Bee Cave, Lago Vista, Sunset Valley, Lakeway, Creedmoor, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and San Marcos, Texas.