Being placed on probation grants you the privilege of serving your sentence in the comfort of your own home. Though, you could have some restrictions placed on you, as well. For example, you might have to meet with a probation officer on a regular basis or perform a certain number of community service hours. Also, guidelines generally state that you must not break the law while serving your probation sentence. If you do violate this rule, a judge could hand down additional penalties.
How a DUI violates your probation
Most probation terms will include a stipulation that you cannot consume alcohol or any other drug. If you do indulge in alcohol use, you risk violating your probation. This alone could lead to additional penalties from a court.
If you receive a DUI conviction, you may not immediately go to jail. There is generally a hearing prior to any more penalties being handed down by the court. A judge could order you to serve your original jail sentence and revoke your probation privileges. The court may have your serve a short jail term and then place you back on probation or you could simply have time added to your probation.
Violating your probation, especially with a DUI conviction, is a serious matter. To protect your rights and hopefully minimize any penalties, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your lawyer may be able to have your probation period lengthened and avoid more severe consequences.