Probation and Parole Violations

A probation or parole violation in Pennsylvania can send you back behind bars, extend your supervision, or trigger harsher penalties than your original sentence. At Chieppor & Egner, our attorneys defend Lancaster County residents facing technical violations, new criminal charges during supervision, and revocation hearings where your freedom hangs in the balance.

Probation Violations in Pennsylvania

Probation lets you serve your sentence in the community under specific conditions set by the court. Violations fall into two main categories. Both can result in a revocation hearing where a judge decides whether to modify, continue, or revoke your probation entirely:

• Technical violations (missed meetings, failed drug tests, unpaid fines)
• New criminal offenses committed during supervision
• Failure to complete court-ordered programs
• Leaving the jurisdiction without permission
• Contact with prohibited persons or places

Consequences of Probation Violations

If a judge determines that you violated probation, the consequences can be significant and may go beyond what you originally faced for the underlying offense. At a revocation hearing, the court has broad discretion to impose additional conditions or order a period of incarceration:

• Incarceration up to the maximum original sentence
• Extended probation period
• Stricter supervision terms
• Mandatory treatment programs
• Additional fines and fees

The judge may also stack penalties when multiple violations occur simultaneously. You will need to attend a Gagnon I preliminary hearing followed by a Gagnon II revocation hearing before a judge, where you can present evidence and examine witnesses.

Parole Violations in Pennsylvania

Parole differs from probation because it allows for early release from prison under the supervision of the Pennsylvania Parole Board. Alleged violations are handled through a separate administrative process rather than a traditional court hearing, which affects how a defense must be developed:

• Positive drug or alcohol screens
• Missed check-ins with your parole agent
• Unauthorized travel outside approved areas
• New arrests or charges
• Possession of firearms or prohibited items

Consequences of Parole Violations

Under 61 Pa. C.S. §6138, parole violations have several consequences and penalties. The Parole Board weighs your conduct, history, and risk to the community when deciding your fate:

• Recommitment to serve back time
• Loss of credit for street time
• Placement in a parole violator center
• Additional conditions upon re-release
• Delayed eligibility for future parole

Your entire remaining sentence can be reactivated in serious cases. You must attend a preliminary hearing and a violation hearing before the Parole Board, with the right to representation and to challenge the evidence against you.

Speak to Our Reputable Criminal Defense Lawyer

Time matters when facing a probation or parole violation in Pennsylvania. As former assistant district attorneys, Alex Egner and Jonathan Chieppor understand the outcomes probation and parole agents typically pursue in these cases. They can advocate on your behalf, communicate directly with your supervising officer, and work to negotiate a resolution before a violation hearing takes place.

Our team has courtroom experience and knowledge of local procedures to mount a strong defense against revocation and protect your freedom. Contact Chieppor & Egner at 717-393-1400 to schedule a free consultation with our criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania. We serve clients in Lancaster, Berk, and York Counties.