In 2017, the courts in Montgomery County received well over 2,400 adult cases and at least 28 juvenile cases involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. First-time offenders convicted of operating under the influence of alcohol are subject to a six month period of probation. This is a lesser penalty that is generally imposed on those who had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of between .08 and .10%. This BAC level is the lowest tier for these offenses. Those who exceed a BAC level of .10% face more rigid penalties including a suspension of driving privileges and some time in jail.
The Pennsylvania court system uses probation as a means of monitoring and supervising offenders. The individual remains within the community and is required to adhere to a number of conditions. Each offender in Montgomery County has a designated Probation Officer (PO) that they will typically meet with on some weekly or monthly interval. Juvenile offenders are supervised by the Juvenile Probation Department and their PO is likely to visit them at their school or residence.
Montgomery County Adult Probation and Parole Department
The Department operates to promote public safety through community supervision. Probationary periods are designed to reinforce positive behavior and ensure that court orders are satisfied. The Department collaborates with a host of internal and external partners to use key resources that can assist offenders such as through drug and alcohol treatment programs.
General Supervision: Rules and Conditions
- Report to the office of the PO at the time(s) and dates(s) scheduled
- Remain compliant with all applicable laws and ordinances
- Allow the PO to visit your residence
- Not to possess any firearms or other weapons
- Ensure the Department is aware of the current residential address
- To maintain employment and pay any fines, restitution, and any support obligations
- All travel outside the state must be pre-approved
- Completion of any ordered medical, psychological testing, treatment, and counseling
- Refrain from possessing or using any drugs or drug paraphernalia
- Submit to any tests ordered for drugs and/or alcohol
Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Probation
Montgomery County's ARD program allows offenders to ultimately have their charges removed from their criminal record if they complete the program. Offenders report with their PO via the internet using Monitor Connect. This is a remote tool that allows those in the program to report using an internet connected device and also facilitates payment of any fines, fees, etc.
Legal Representation for Violations of Probation (VOP)
If you are on probation in Montgomery County it is critical to satisfy the responsibilities and observe the conditions as ordered. If a violation occurs, the offender may be summoned to the court and potentially face their original charges. In these instances, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney is better able to resolve these matters and minimize harsh penalties and sanctions.
Attorney in Montgomery County for DUI Defense and Probation Violations
Attorney Joseph D. Lento has many years of experience representing clients in Montgomery County that are facing many types of offenses. He uses personalized defense strategies and effective negotiation skills to achieve positive outcomes. You are encouraged to contact the office for a consultation at (888) 535-3686 today.
