Probation can limit your ability to travel. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that travel isn’t possible while on probation. 

How to Travel Out of State While on Probation

It may be possible to travel out of state while on probation. However, it’s important to receive approval prior to travel. Otherwise, you could be charged with violating your probation. To travel out of state while on probation, you must submit your request at least two weeks before your planned travel dates. Keep in mind that the probation officer can decline your request. Some probation officers may only approve travel for emergencies.

Your probation officer may also require that you continue communication with them even while out of state through phone or video calls. The more details that you can provide to your probation officer, the more likely they are to approve your travel request. This includes your destination, travel dates, length of travel, and reason for travel.

Whether or not a probation officer approves travel will likely depend on a few factors, including the type of charge. Felony charges may require those on probation to stay in the state. Those with misdemeanor charges are more likely to receive permission to travel. The number of offenses can also determine your eligibility to travel. If this is a first-time offense, your probation officer may be more likely to allow you to travel.

If you are a repeat offender, they may not allow you to leave the state. Additionally, if you have missed any prior court dates or probation hearings, it’s unlikely that travel will be approved. 

How to Handle a Probation Violation

A probation violation can lead to more severe consequences, so it’s important to consider your options and create a plan as soon as possible. If you’re in violation of probation, it’s important to contact your lawyer right away. A probation violation can change your legal defense options, so it’s important that your lawyer knows about it as soon as possible.

If there’s a good reason for violating probation, your lawyer may be able to help you communicate this with your probation officer. But, you’ll want to communicate your reason sooner rather than later. Violating probation could lead to additional charges. If you previously negotiated a reduced sentence, the judge may decide to overturn it. If probation kept you out of jail, violating it could lead to jail time.

In New Jersey, these violations can lead to a VOP – or violation of probation hearing or trial, where the judge could impose a jail sentence. The best-case scenario is that the judge will extend your probation time. The average time of probation in New Jersey is up to five years. If you get off with a probation extension, it’s imperative that you don’t violate it again. As to be expected, another violation could lead to jail time and a permanent criminal record.

If you’re dealing with criminal charges in New Jersey, whether or not you have a probation violation, make sure you reach out to an experienced criminal defense lawyer to consider your legal defense options. If you have plans to travel and are currently on probation, a lawyer may be able to help improve your chances of being approved.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Criminal Charges in Marlton

Were you arrested or charged with criminal charges in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The Law Office of John B. Brennan has successfully represented clients charged with criminal charges in Marlton, Cherry Hill, Medford, Moorestown, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 446-5123 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 10,000 Lincoln Dr. East, Suite 201, Marlton, NJ 08053.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.