Wolf Law is proud to serve Denver and nearby communities with experienced and compassionate criminal defense representation. For many Coloradans, probation is a second chance — an opportunity to avoid jail or prison while proving to the court that you can follow conditions, work, and rebuild your life. But when probation is at risk of being revoked, your freedom is once again on the line.
At Wolf Law, our team knows that probation revocation hearings can be just as serious and stressful as the original case. Led by Jeff Wolf, a trusted trial attorney and national legal commentator, we fight to protect our clients’ rights and futures when probation violations threaten their stability.
What Probation Revocation Means in Colorado
Probation in Colorado allows defendants to remain in their community while serving a sentence under supervision. Instead of incarceration, individuals agree to follow strict terms such as:
- Regular check-ins with a probation officer
- Drug and alcohol testing
- Employment or schooling requirements
- Payment of restitution or fines
- Avoiding new criminal charges
If the probation department believes a violation has occurred, they can file a complaint asking the court to revoke probation. This doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be sent to jail or prison — but it does mean a judge will hold a hearing to decide your future.
Common Reasons Probation Is Revoked
Probation violations can be technical, financial, or new criminal conduct. Common allegations include:
- Missing appointments with a probation officer
- Failing or skipping drug or alcohol tests
- Not completing required classes, counseling, or treatment
- Falling behind on fines or restitution
- Getting arrested or charged with a new crime
Some violations are minor or unintentional, but probation officers often report them anyway. Without skilled legal help, even a small slip-up can result in serious consequences.
The Probation Revocation Hearing Process
Once a complaint is filed, the court will set a revocation hearing. These hearings take place in the same court where the original sentence was imposed — for example, Denver County Court, Jefferson County Courthouse, or Arapahoe District Court.
The process typically includes:
- Notice of Violation — You’ll be formally advised of the alleged violations.
- Preliminary Hearing — The judge determines if there is probable cause to move forward.
- Revocation Hearing — Similar to a trial, both sides present evidence and arguments. The prosecution must prove the violation by a “preponderance of evidence,” which is a lower standard than in a criminal trial.
- Judge’s Decision — The judge may continue probation, modify conditions, or revoke probation and impose a new sentence.
How a Defense Attorney Can Respond
Facing revocation without an attorney leaves you vulnerable. A defense lawyer’s role is to challenge the evidence, highlight mitigating circumstances, and argue for alternatives to incarceration.
Attorney Jeff Wolf explains:
“Probation revocation isn’t the end of the road. With preparation and advocacy, we can show the judge that our client deserves another chance — whether that’s continued probation, modified terms, or placement in treatment instead of jail.”
Defense strategies may include:
- Demonstrating compliance with most conditions despite a single slip-up
- Presenting evidence of employment, education, or treatment progress
- Challenging the accuracy of drug or alcohol testing
- Negotiating with probation officers for alternative sanctions
- Arguing that financial hardships, not willful neglect, caused missed payments
Mitigating Consequences: Alternatives to Revocation
Even when a violation is proven, probation does not always have to be revoked. Judges often consider alternative outcomes, such as:
- Extending probation
- Adding community service or counseling
- Allowing payment plans for fines and restitution
- Ordering residential or outpatient treatment instead of incarceration
Attorney and Partner Colleen Kelley brings valuable trial experience to these hearings, particularly when emotions run high and evidence is contested. Her calm, strategic approach helps clients demonstrate accountability while avoiding unnecessarily harsh punishment.
Why Local Representation Matters
Probation revocation hearings are handled locally, and outcomes can vary depending on the judge, probation officer, and county. Wolf Law’s team regularly represents clients across Denver Metro courts — from Capitol Hill to Aurora Central, and from Green Mountain to Cherry Creek.
Our familiarity with probation officers, prosecutors, and court procedures helps us advocate effectively for clients facing revocation.
Protecting Your Future
Probation is a lifeline for many people — but one mistake shouldn’t erase your chance at freedom. At Wolf Law, we believe in compassion, second chances, and smart defense strategies. Jeff Wolf and Colleen Kelley are committed to protecting your future when probation violations put it at risk.
Call Wolf Law Today
If you’ve been accused of a probation violation in Colorado, don’t wait. Your freedom may depend on how you respond.
Call Wolf Law today to schedule your free consultation. Talk to Jeff Wolf and the Wolf Law team about your defense options — and let us stand with you every step of the way.
