This is the next in a series of articles on early parole termination in Peoria, Illinois. My previous post provided an overview of the topics explored in this series. In this article, I will review Illinois’ legal framework for early termination of probation. I will also discuss the parameters that judges typically use when assessing whether an offender’s suspended sentence should be terminated early. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the court case. If you are currently on probation in Illinois and need assistance, contact my office today to speak with an attorney.
I cover these topics in more detail in the rest of this article and in this video:
Illinois Probation Violations
What happens if you violate the terms of your probation violated? next? is largely at the discretion of your parole officer. In the case of a relatively minor first offense, you can be exonerated with a written warning. However, later or serious violations may require you to attend a parole violation hearing.
During a violation hearing, a judge will determine whether your actions constitute a violation of probation. If the judge finds you violated your probation terms, you may face an extension of probation, new terms of probation, or jail time.
Illinois parole
Let’s look at parole first. Probation is a form of sentencing in its own right, which cannot be said of probation, but more on that later. Probation is the most common sentencing tool in America, and it essentially works by establishing rules that an offender must follow in order to avoid a harsher sentence. For example, if you consumed alcohol and then started a bar fight, a judge may give you a suspended sentence instead of jail time.
The terms of the trial period vary by individual and fees. In the example above, the abuser may be required to remain sober for six months, avoid bars or establishments serving alcohol during that time, and attend an alcohol and anger management counseling center. If that person follows the rules set out in their probation, they can avoid jail time and possibly even have their charges reduced or dropped altogether.
Execution of Parole
The Parole Board determines the terms of a person’s parole. These conditions are then monitored by a probation officer.
Probation terms are set with the intention of reintegrating an individual into society, and not as a form of punishment like probation. Because of this, conditions can vary widely and likely depend on the original offense committed by the probation officer. Some of the more common parole conditions include: