Parole Violation in Bucks County – What to Know
Parole allows individuals convicted of crimes in Bucks County to serve the remainder of their sentence under supervised release after serving time in prison. However, this privilege comes with strict conditions—and a parole violation in Bucks County can result in your return to incarceration.
Common parole violations include missing check-ins, traveling without permission, failing drug or alcohol tests, or being charged with a new crime. In Bucks County, the Adult Probation and Parole Department oversees parole supervision and reports suspected violations to the court or the Pennsylvania Parole Board, depending on the type of sentence.
Unlike probation, which is a court-imposed alternative to incarceration, parole is granted after serving time and is subject to stricter rules. If a parole officer believes you’ve violated the terms of your release, they can initiate detention and request a revocation hearing, where the court determines whether you should be returned to jail or given another chance.
An experienced Bucks County defense lawyer can help you build a case for continued release, provide mitigating evidence, and advocate for alternatives to jail time such as treatment, community programs, or adjusted parole terms.
Common Types of Parole Violations
Parole violations fall into two main categories:
- Technical Violations: Failing to comply with supervision terms (e.g., missing a meeting, failing a drug test, or traveling without permission).
- Direct Violations: Committing a new criminal offense while on parole.
Even technical violations can result in arrest and detention. The severity of penalties depends on the violation type, your prior record, and your behavior while under supervision.
Our attorneys often advocate for alternatives to jail—such as treatment programs, curfew extensions, or electronic monitoring—to help clients avoid full revocation.
The Parole Violation Process in Bucks County
If your parole officer suspects you violated your conditions, they may issue a detainer and notify the Bucks County Adult Probation and Parole Department or the Pennsylvania Parole Board.
You’ll then face one or both of the following hearings:
- Gagnon I Hearing (Preliminary): Determines if probable cause exists that a violation occurred.
- Gagnon II Hearing (Final): The court decides whether to revoke parole or modify supervision terms.
These hearings are held at the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas in Doylestown. Having an attorney familiar with this court system can significantly affect the outcome.
Learn more about the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas →
Parole Violation – FAQs
❓ What’s the difference between parole and probation in Bucks County?
A: Probation is an alternative to jail, while parole is supervised release after serving part of a jail or prison sentence.
❓ Can I get bail if I violate parole?
A: Bail may be denied depending on the violation and your criminal history, especially for serious or repeated violations.
❓ Can new criminal charges be handled during a parole hearing?
A: No. New criminal charges are handled separately but can influence the outcome of a parole violation hearing.