Probation is a way a giving an offender the benefit of the doubt by allowing them to avoid spending time in jail so long as they abide by the conditions of their probation. The specifics of your probation can vary based on the charges. For example, someone with a DUI may be told to stay out of bars or establishments that serve alcohol, while a person with an assault conviction may be ordered to have no contact with the victim or their family.
If you have been convicted of a felony offense, Minnesota puts a number of standard conditions into your parole. We take a closer look at those standard conditions in today’s blog.
Common Probation Conditions
Under Minnesota law, here’s a look at the ten standard probation conditions for anyone convicted of a felony offense:
- Follow all State and Federal criminal laws.
- Contact your probation officer as directed.
- Tell your probation officer within 72 hours if you have contact with law enforcement.
- Tell your probation officer within 72 hours if you are charged with any new crime.
- Tell your probation officer within 72 hours if you change your address, employment, or telephone number.
- Cooperate with the search of your person, residence, vehicle, workplace, property, and things as directed by your probation officer.
- Sign releases of information as directed.
- Give a DNA sample when directed.
- Do not use or possess any firearms, ammunition, or explosives.
- Do not register to vote or vote until discharged from probation and your civil rights are fully restored.
As we noted above, there can be additional conditions set forth depending on the specifics of your case, but these are the standard conditions associated with a felony conviction. As you can see, even though you avoided jail time, you’re still going to have to follow plenty of rules if you want to avoid violating your probation and having to serve a suspended sentence.
If you are facing felony charges or another conviction that could involve serious probation conditions, reach out to Appelman Law Firm today to learn how we’ll fight on your behalf and help you beat the charges. Contact us today for more information.
