Houston & Alexander October/November 2017

What You Need to Know About Probation A Slip-Up Is Easier Than You Think

Let’s say you’re convicted of a serious crime, but you get probation instead of prison time. That’s a huge deal. You can avoid being behind bars and, with good behavior, eventually move on with your life. If you’re like most people, you’ll want to follow the rules of your probation. But what if something goes awry? Probation rules vary, and you might not even violate them on purpose. Maybe you didn’t know your roommate was doing drugs until he got arrested. Maybe you looked bad participating in that street fight when the cops pulled up, even though you were just trying to break it up.

being committed, and notify the officer 10 days before moving residences. Probation violations can mean you will serve your full sentence. Violations will get you your day in court. If you’re found to be at fault or negligent, you could end up in jail with the sentence you initially avoided in the first place. It’s important to establish a respectful working relationship with your probation officer. That way, if something does happen, they will be willing to work with you. They have to do their job, but you can still earn their trust. If that fails, it’s just you and the judge, right back where you started. Since you’re a convict, their inclination will be to not trust you. You should be as prepared as possible for that moment so you can work toward the best possible outcome. We encourage you to learn every small detail of your probation terms and follow them to a T. But be ready to defend yourself in the event of a violation.

Here are some facts to remember about probation terms.

They are strict. Probation officers monitor those in their stewardship very, very closely. Homes are subject to search, and your workplace is subject to spontaneous visits. Tennessee law also requires you to never get drunk, avoid being around a crime

Lamb Chops Orange-Balsamic Impress any dinner guest with this surprisingly quick and easy-to-make meal.

• 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided • 2 teaspoons grated orange rind • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice • 8 (4-ounce) lamb rib chops, trimmed Ingredients Directions 1. Combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, rind, and juice in a large

Recipe courtesy of CookingLight.com.

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • Cooking spray • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

pan with cooking spray. Add lamb and cook 2 minutes each side. 3. Place vinegar in a small

zip-top plastic bag. Add lamb to bag; turn to coat well. Let stand at room

skillet over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Cook 3 minutes or until vinegar is syrupy. Drizzle vinegar and remaining teaspoon oil over lamb.

temperature for 10 minutes. Remove lamb from bag and add salt and pepper. 2. Heat a large grill pan over medium-high heat. Coat

3

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