When someone on probation is arrested, families often hear the words “probation violation” or “hold” and are not sure what they mean. Can the person be bailed out? How long will they be there? The answers depend on the specific case, but this guide explains the basics in plain English.
What Is a Probation Violation?
Probation lets a person serve a sentence in the community instead of in jail, as long as they follow certain rules. Those rules often include reporting to a probation officer, passing drug tests, paying fees, staying out of trouble, and not leaving the area without permission. A probation violation is when the person is accused of breaking one of those rules.
Two Main Kinds of Violations
- Technical violations: Breaking a rule of probation, like missing an appointment or failing a drug test, without a new criminal charge.
- New charge violations: Being arrested for a new crime while on probation.
The type of violation can affect how the case is handled and whether a bond is set.
What Is a Probation “Hold”?
When someone on probation is arrested, the jail may place a hold on them. A hold generally means the person will stay in custody until a judge or the proper authority addresses the probation issue. In some cases a bond is set on the violation. In other cases there is no bond at first, and the person must wait to see a judge.
Can You Bail Someone Out on a Probation Violation?
Sometimes, yes. If a bond is set on the probation violation, a bail bond company may be able to post it. If the person also has a new charge with a separate bond, both may need to be handled before release. If there is a hold with no bond, a bail bond cannot be posted until a bond is set. A bondsman can look up the booking details and tell you what bonds, if any, are available.
Eastep Bail Bonds offers probation violation bail bonds in Wichita when a bond is available.
What Families Can Do Right Now
- Find out where the person is held and what the booking shows. Use our inmate search page or call us.
- Ask whether there is a bond on the violation, on any new charge, or both.
- Contact an attorney to understand the violation and the options.
- Gather information the attorney may need, like proof of employment, treatment, or other progress on probation.
Avoiding Violations After Release
If your loved one is released, help them stay on track:
- Keep every probation appointment and every court date
- Follow all conditions of probation and of the bond
- Stay in contact with the probation officer and the bondsman
Call Us for a Fast Answer
Probation cases can be confusing, but you do not have to figure out the bond side alone. Eastep Bail Bonds can quickly check what bond is available and walk you through your options, 24/7.
Eastep Bail Bonds is a bail bond company. We are not attorneys and we do not give legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact Warrior Lawyers.
Call Eastep Bail Bonds 24/7 at (316) 391-3723.
