Justia Lawyer Rating
10 Best, Attorney Client Satisfaction Badge from the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
Top 100 Trial Lawyers Badge from The National Trial Lawyers
Top 100 Badge from America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys
NADC
Avvo Rating, 10.0 Scott Grabel
Top 10, Attorney and Practice Magazine's, Criminal Defense Law Firm

Applying to the Court for Probation

Applying to the Court for Probation

Post-Trial Procedure in a Criminal Case

Applying to the Court for Probation

If you have been convicted of a crime, and a motion for a new trial is not in order or was denied, you may still be able to apply for parole at sentencing.

At sentencing, you may be:

  • Given straight probation; or

  • Especially if there is a prior criminal record, the probation officer may recommend a certain time in jail or prison be served prior to being eligible for parole; or

  • Given probation that is conditional upon specific requirements such as performing community service, completing a treatment program, or other conditions of probation.

Some offenses require mandatory jail time served or may be ineligible for parole. You may also be asked to pay a fine or make restitution.

An application for probation should be properly prepared in order to get the best outcome at sentencing, while there are certain things that should be part of a request for parole, because each case is different, it is best to contact Attorney Scott Grabel to discuss your post-trial sentencing options.

The Importance of Disclosing Prior Convictions and Arrests

The defendant should disclose to his or her attorney any prior arrests or convictions on record. Trying to hide your past will not work as criminal records, unless sealed, are a matter of public record. It is better to be honest when applying for parole.

Family Needs and Being a Productive Member of Society

The application should reflect the defendant’s employment status, and any contributions made to society (for example volunteer or charity work) that helps establish the defendant as a productive member of society.

If you have family members that you provide care for because they are disabled, elderly, or have a medical condition that requires care, let the parole board know of the importance of family obligations.

Taking Responsibility for Your Actions

It should also be conveyed if the defendant has remorse or shows signs of penitence, or wishes to seek treatment. If you have been convicted, regardless of what you think, the parole board sees you as being guilty of a crime. Taking responsibility for your actions is an important step in assuring the board you are a strong candidate for being given parole.

Consider Treatment Options

If the conviction was related to a crime or activity that may be less likely to be repeated if treatment is obtained, the defendant should make clear if they would like to seek treatment. Examples include treatment for gambling addiction, drug or alcohol abuse, anger management, mental health counseling, parenting classes, and even job rehabilitation.

Seeking treatment not only helps in achieving rehabilitation goals, but may also indicate a further acknowledgement and responsibility for the crime for which you have been convicted.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation can play an important role when requesting probation. Court rules limit testimony and will not permit “hearsay.” Letters of recommendation do not have the same limitations on what a person can say.

Letters from employers, friends, family, clergy, etc. may help to establish that the request for probation is reasonable.

Top

Client Reviews

★★★★★
Scott Grabel was kind enough to look into my situation and take his time to speak with me free of charge. Most attorneys will not do that. He gave me reassurance that I had nothing to worry about. If I am ever in need of an attorney in the future I will be calling Scott Grabel and will highly recommend him to anyone with a legal issue. G. K.
★★★★★
Great job Tim, Scott, Daniel very aggressive and knowledgeable They always call you back if you have questions even after hours the best outcome I could've hoped for thanks again R. E.
★★★★★
Great lawyer he went into court and ripped the girl trying to lie on me a new one. He fot me off on all charges and with out him i would be in prision. Thank you so much i will definitely keep your number and pass it on to any one in trouble and keep it for future incase i ever have to go back to court K. J.