Orlando Violation of Probation Attorney: A Guide to VOP in Florida

By: John Guidry II

Are you facing a Violation of Probation (VOP) in Orlando or Central Florida? My name is John Guidry, and you’re in the right place. When your freedom is on the line, you need an experienced VOP attorney who understands the local system. With 32 years of experience and thousands of cases successfully defended, I know what it takes to protect your rights.

Take this situation seriously. Florida jails (and prisons) are filled with people who underestimated the consequences of a VOP. My goal is to fight for you, so you don’t become another statistic.

Accused of Violating Probation in Orange, Seminole, or Osceola County? Don’t wait. Call the Law Firm of John P. Guidry now for a confidential case evaluation. Call Us 24/7: (407) 423-1117

Understanding the Two Types of Probation Violations in Florida

Under Florida law, there are two ways you can violate your probation:

• Substantive Violation: This is the most serious type. It occurs when you are arrested for a brand-new criminal offense while on probation.
• Technical Violation: This happens when you fail to meet one or more of the specific conditions of your probation. While often considered “lesser,” a technical VOP can still lead to severe penalties, including jail time.

Common examples of technical violations include:

• A positive drug or alcohol test
• Failing to pay court costs or restitution
• Missing a court-ordered class, counseling session, or community service appointment
• Failing to report to your probation officer
• Changing your address or employment without permission

A New Lifeline: Florida’s Alternative Sanctioning Programs

Fortunately, a newer Florida law has created “alternative sanctioning programs” that can offer lighter penalties for certain technical violations. This is a significant advantage, as it can help you avoid arrest, court appearances, and even the need to hire an attorney in some cases.

Every county has its own unique program. Here are a few examples of how these programs work in Central Florida:

• Scenario in Orange County: Let’s say you failed to report a change of address. Under the Orange County alternative sanctions program, you might be required to call in weekly for six weeks, report in person twice a month for three months, and attend a “Life-Skills Class.”
• Scenario for a Failed Drug Test: A positive drug test is a common technical violation. The new program might require you to complete a drug evaluation and any recommended treatment, impose a curfew, and mandate attendance at NA/AA classes for 90 days.

While these programs offer a better path, not every case qualifies. It’s crucial to understand your specific situation.

How We Can Fight a Technical VOP in Court

If your case isn’t referred to an alternative program, don’t lose hope. There are numerous ways to beat a technical VOP charge. Probation officers sometimes make procedural mistakes when filing the violation paperwork, and a sharp legal eye can expose these errors. These mistakes can create a higher chance of winning your case in front of a judge.

Your Best Defense: Hire a Local Attorney with Experience Before Your Judge

When you’re fighting a VOP, hiring a local attorney isn’t just a good idea—it’s critical. But here is the single most important question you must ask:

“Have you handled a Violation of Probation case in front of my specific judge?”

If the answer is no, find another attorney. An experienced VOP lawyer who is familiar with your judge’s history and tendencies provides an invaluable advantage. As a Central Florida defense attorney for over three decades, I focus my violation of probation practice in Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties. I also represent clients in new criminal cases throughout Lake, Brevard, and Volusia counties. I know the judges and the system.

Watch: Avoid Jail on Your First VOP

Reading about the law can be complex. In my video, “Violation of Probation? Avoid Jail on Your First VOP,” I break down a new Florida statute that can prevent you from going to jail for a first-time felony VOP if you meet certain conditions.ur judge. You only want to hire somebody that has done a VOP in front of your judge. If they haven’t, move on.

If you’d like to learn more about violations of probation, you can find more information here: https://www.jgcrimlaw.com/practice-areas/criminal-defense/violation-of-probation/

About John Guidry II

John Guidry II is a seasoned criminal defense attorney and founder of the Law Firm of John P. Guidry II, P.A., located in downtown Orlando next to the Orange County Courthouse, where he has practiced for over 30 years. With more than three decades of experience defending clients throughout Central Florida since 1993, Guidry has successfully defended thousands of cases in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Brevard, Lake, and Volusia counties. He has built a reputation for his strategic approach to criminal defense, focusing on pretrial motions and case dismissals rather than jury trials.

Guidry earned both his Juris Doctorate and Master of Business Administration from St. Louis University in 1993. He is a member of the Florida Bar and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His practice encompasses the full spectrum of Florida state criminal charges, with a particular emphasis on achieving favorable outcomes through thorough pretrial preparation and motion practice.

Beyond the courtroom, Guidry is a prolific legal educator who has authored over 400 articles on criminal defense topics. He shares his legal expertise through his popular YouTube channel, Instagram, and TikTok accounts, where he has built a substantial following of people eager to learn about the law. His educational content breaks down complex legal concepts into accessible information for the general public.

When not practicing law, Guidry enjoys tennis and pickleball, and loves to travel. Drawing from his background as a former recording studio owner and music video producer in the Orlando area, he brings a creative perspective to his legal practice and continues to apply his passion for video production to his educational content.