Prior Record SLAMS Your Probation Hopes: The Truth
Video Transcript
A prior criminal record can significantly reduce your chances of getting probation, often leading courts to impose stricter terms or a jail sentence instead. Judges and probation officers view repeat offenses as higher risk and may treat past convictions, probation violations, or similar charges as aggravating factors at sentencing. This article explains how prior history affects probation eligibility, what prosecutors and courts look for, and strategies to improve your odds.
Ray Hrdlicka – Host – Attorneys.Media
“Is there a difference between the application of probation in a case if the defendant has prior convictions versus no prior convictions?”
Andrew Dósa – Criminal Defense Attorney – Oakland, CA
“Well, I think the answer is yes. Probation is much more interested in the case with someone having a criminal past. Certainly, the most obvious situation is if there’s someone still on parole. If they’re on parole, then the parole officers may be involved, and then however they may communicate with probation. At the beginning of that case and then following it and monitoring it, and perhaps even advising the District Attorneys about what they want, what they think will be appropriate.”