Understanding Probation in Michigan

Probation in Michigan is a form of sentencing that allows a person convicted of a crime to remain in the community under supervision instead of serving time in jail or prison. While this may seem like a second chance, it comes with strict rules and expectations that vary depending on the court, judge, and terms specific to your case.

In general, probation in Michigan can include:

• Regular check-ins with a probation officer
• Drug and alcohol testing
• Community service hours
• Curfew restrictions
• Attending counseling, therapy, or AA/NA meetings
• Paying fines, fees, and restitution

If you violate any term of your probation, you could be facing jail time, extended probation, or even revocation of your probation and imposition of the original sentence. This is why understanding probation violations—especially common ones in the fall—is critical.

Common September Probation Violations in Michigan

Each season has its potential pitfalls when you’re on probation, but here are the most common ways we see people get tripped up in September:

1. Alcohol and Drug Use at Social Events

September is full of social events tied to the end of summer and the beginning of sports season—think Labor Day weekend, football tailgates, and bar outings. Unfortunately, drinking—even one beer—can violate a no-alcohol condition, which is common in OWI (drunk driving), domestic violence, and drug-related cases. Often our clients think one drink won’t show up or that they’ll be okay if they “just don’t get caught.” But testing is more frequent this time of year and easier than ever to enforce with portable breathalyzer units or even random mouth swab tests.

Even if you're not drinking, just being around others who are can compromise sound judgment and lead to more risky behavior—like missing curfew or driving someone else’s car, both of which can be violations depending on your terms.

2. Missing Scheduled Probation Check-Ins

Life gets busy when fall resumes—kids are back in school, work hours pile up, and schedules change. But “I forgot” or “I got busy” won’t cut it with a probation officer. In fact, many Michigan courts, such as the 35th District Court in Plymouth or the 14A District Court in Ann Arbor, have electronic systems that flag any missed call-ins or appointments instantly. These will trigger violation hearings even if the officer believes it was unintentional.

Why September is a Bad Month to Miss Check-Ins

Many probation offices throughout Michigan increase compliance checks in September for one main reason—people are more likely to mess up. Students are back from summer breaks, parties are frequent, and resources at the courthouse are geared toward catching violations now that court calendars pick up again after the summer lull.

If your probation officer asked you to check in by phone or in person—do it. If you have to reschedule, give advanced notice. Anything less puts your freedom at risk.

3. Technical Violations Are Still Violations

Technical probation violations are those that don’t involve committing a new crime but instead breaking the rules of supervision. September triggers for technical violations in Michigan can include:

• Missing therapy sessions or treatment appointments
• Not providing proof of employment or community service by a deadline
• Being late for drug testing or failing to appear at all
• Using synthetic drugs or attempting to adulterate test results
• Failing to pay fines or fees on schedule

The trouble with technical violations is they are often easily avoidable—but can carry the same weight in court as more serious missteps.

4. Problems with School and Employment

If you're a student and probation is part of a plea agreement for an MIP (Minor in Possession), marijuana offense, or even something like disturbing the peace, proving you’re in schooling or maintaining employment might be one of your terms. When school starts up again, any drop in grades, skipped classes, or undisclosed program changes can raise red flags.

Similarly, if you're on probation and working, you may be required to prove ongoing employment. September is a busy hiring and firing month across the board—and if you lose a job or quit one without finding a backup and notifying probation, you could be summoned to court.

5. Traffic Stops and New Charges

With schools back in session, there are more police patrols near school zones, college campuses, and popular routes—meaning a greater chance of getting pulled over. Even if you’re not doing anything serious, getting cited for driving without insurance, license plate issues, or expired tags might count as a violation depending on your case. If you've been convicted of OWI or driving on a suspended license, you’re especially vulnerable.

Let’s not forget: even being charged with a new offense—traffic or otherwise—during probation can be seen as a violation. It doesn’t need to be a conviction. That’s why having legal counsel is so important.

6. Sobriety Court Reset

Many Michigan Sobriety Courts—including those in Wayne, Oakland, and Washtenaw counties—do evaluations and resets in early fall to determine progress or noncompliance in the program. This means your actions over the summer will now come under sharp review by a judge who may increase monitoring, require additional classes, suspend program credit, or issue sanctions. Your behavior in September could determine whether you make it through the program or face jail time.

How to Avoid a September Probation Violation

• Double-down on communication: Call your probation officer ahead of time if a conflict arises. Don’t ghost them.
• Stay sober if ordered: Don’t test the system—it will catch up to you.
• Be extra vigilant: Keep your vehicle legally operable, insurance up to date, and avoid all legal trouble.
• Maintain a routine: Keep a probation calendar to track deadlines, test dates, and any required appointments.
• Don’t rely on assumptions: If you’re unsure whether something violates your probation—like leaving the state or switching jobs—check first.

What if You Violate Probation in Michigan?

Violating probation doesn’t always mean jail—but it does mean your freedom is now back in the hands of a judge. If your probation officer files a violation, your case will be set for a hearing. If the judge finds the violation occurred—even a minor one—you can face serious penalties, including:

• Jail time (up to the maximum penalty of the original offense)
• Extended probation
• Addition of new, stricter conditions
• Loss of Sobriety Court or 7411/Deferred Status

These are avoidable situations if you act early. The sooner you reach out to a criminal defense attorney, the easier it is to resolve the matter before it spirals. If you believe you might have violated probation, or you’ve been notified of a hearing, do not wait to get the right legal help.

Get Help from a Michigan Probation Lawyer

If you’re currently on probation in Michigan and you’re worried about your compliance—or if you've already been charged with a violation—we can help. Attorney Aaron J. Boria has successfully defended probation violations in courts across Wayne, Washtenaw, and Oakland counties. In many cases, we’ve been able to get probation reinstated, avoid jail time, and keep clients on track to complete their original terms.

If you need someone to fight for you in court, contact us at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation. Don’t wait until the judge is angry and the options are limited—call us today and let’s discuss what can be done for your case.

Conclusion

September may seem like every other month, but when you're on probation in Michigan, it's a time full of traps. With increased court activity, stricter enforcement, and more opportunities to make a mistake, staying on top of your compliance is crucial. Take your probation seriously, know your terms, and don’t hesitate to get professional help if you believe you’ve slipped up—even if it seems minor.

Attorney Aaron J. Boria is ready to protect your rights, explain your options, and defend you if needed. Give yourself the best chance to successfully finish probation and move forward. Contact our office today at (734) 453-7806.