Probation Violations in Nevada: What to Expect

Being placed on probation in Nevada can feel like a second chance. Instead of serving time in jail or prison, you get to remain in the community — but that opportunity comes with strict conditions. If you violate those terms, you could be facing serious consequences, including the possibility of serving the original sentence you were trying to avoid.


Whether your probation is through Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, knowing what counts as a violation — and what happens next — is critical.




Common Ways Probation Is Violated


Probation conditions vary depending on your case, but violations generally fall into two categories:


1. Technical violations – Breaking the specific rules of your probation, such as:


  • Missing meetings with your probation officer
  • Failing to complete court-ordered classes or community service
  • Traveling out of state without permission
  • Not paying required fines, fees, or restitution


2. Substantive violations – Committing a new offense while on probation, even if it’s unrelated to your original charge. This can include anything from a DUI arrest to a shoplifting charge.


Sometimes, violations happen due to misunderstandings — for example, missing an appointment because you didn’t get a schedule change notice. But even unintentional violations can still lead to serious consequences.




What Happens After a Probation Violation in Nevada


If your probation officer believes you’ve violated your terms, they can file a violation report with the court. The judge may then:


  • Issue a summons for you to appear in court, or
  • Issue a warrant for your arrest (especially if the violation is serious or involves a new criminal charge)


You’ll then attend a probation revocation hearing, where the court decides if you did, in fact, violate your probation and what should happen next.




Possible Penalties for a Probation Violation


Penalties vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation, your criminal history, and your overall compliance with probation before the incident. The court can:


  • Reinstate your probation with the same terms
  • Modify your probation by adding stricter conditions
  • Extend the length of your probation
  • Revoke your probation entirely and require you to serve the original jail or prison sentence


If your violation involves a new criminal charge, you could be dealing with two separate cases — one for the violation and one for the new offense.




Defenses to a Probation Violation


Having an attorney at your probation revocation hearing is essential. Your lawyer may be able to show:


  • The violation didn’t happen (mistaken identity, inaccurate records)
  • The violation was unintentional and due to circumstances beyond your control
  • You have made significant progress on probation and deserve another chance
  • Alternative measures (like increased supervision or additional classes) would be more appropriate than jail time


Unlike criminal trials, probation violation hearings have a lower burden of proof — meaning the prosecution doesn’t need to prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt. This makes having an advocate on your side even more important.




Local Help for Probation Violations in Douglas and Washoe Counties


At Max Stovall Law, we understand that life on probation can be challenging, and sometimes mistakes happen. We’ve represented clients across Douglas County and Washoe County in probation violation hearings, helping them avoid unnecessary jail time and get back on track.


If you’ve been accused of violating your probation, don’t face the judge alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight to keep your freedom.

Petty Theft in Nevada: Penalties and Defenses

By Max Stovall • November 5, 2025
Petty theft is one of the most common charges in Nevada, especially for first-time offenders . But while it may sound minor, a conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record and lasting consequences for your employment and reputation. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, it’s important to understand what’s at stake. What Counts as Petty Theft in Nevada? Petty theft — also called petit larceny — is defined as intentionally stealing property valued at less than $1,200. Common examples include: Shoplifting small items from a store Taking property from a friend, roommate, or co-worker Switching price tags to pay less Walking out of a business without paying for services Penalties for Petty Theft Petty theft is a misdemeanor in Nevada. If convicted, you could face: Up to 6 months in jail Fines up to $1,000 Restitution to the victim Possible community service While jail time is rare for first-time offenders, a conviction still creates a permanent criminal record that can affect job applications, housing, and professional licensing. Petty Theft vs. Grand Larceny If the value of the property is $1,200 or more, the charge becomes grand larceny, which is a felony with much harsher penalties. Prosecutors will often rely on store records or victim statements to determine value, so challenging that valuation can sometimes be a defense strategy. Defenses to Petty Theft Charges Potential defenses include: Lack of intent to steal Mistaken identity Wrongful accusation Disputing the value of the property Violation of your rights during the search or arrest In some cases, your attorney can negotiate for dismissal if you agree to pay restitution, attend theft prevention classes, or complete community service. Keeping a Conviction Off Your Record First-time offenders in Douglas and Washoe Counties may be eligible for diversion programs that result in charges being dropped after you meet certain conditions. This option is worth pursuing to avoid having theft on your record. We Defend Petty Theft Cases in Northern Nevada At Max Stovall Law, we’ve helped many clients — including first-time offenders — avoid the long-term consequences of a petty theft conviction. We know how to negotiate for reduced charges, push for dismissal, and protect your reputation. If you’ve been charged with petty theft, don’t assume it’s “just a ticket.” Contact us today for a free consultation to learn your options.

Driving with a Suspended License in Nevada: What Can Happen

By Max Stovall • October 22, 2025
If your driver’s license has been suspended in Nevada, getting behind the wheel might seem tempting — especially if you need to get to work, school, or take care of family. But driving on a suspended license is more than just a traffic violation. It’s a criminal offense with penalties that can make your situation much worse. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, here’s what you need to know about the risks, penalties, and possible defenses. Why Licenses Get Suspended in Nevada A suspension can happen for many reasons, including: DUI convictions or administrative suspensions Too many demerit points on your driving record Failing to pay traffic tickets or court fines Driving without insurance Certain criminal convictions, like reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter In many cases, you’ll receive notice from the Nevada DMV about your suspension, including the length of time and any steps you must take to reinstate your license. The Penalties for Driving While Suspended Driving with a suspended license in Nevada is usually a misdemeanor, but the penalties can be serious. For most cases, you could face: Fines: Up to $1,000 Jail time: Up to 6 months (though many first-time offenders receive probation instead) Extended suspension: The DMV will typically add more time to your suspension period If your suspension is related to a DUI, the penalties can be even harsher — including possible mandatory jail time and a longer extension on your suspension. How You Can Be Caught Police can learn about your suspension in several ways: Running your license during a traffic stop Automated license plate readers (ALPR) in patrol cars After an accident investigation Even if you’re driving safely, being pulled over for a minor infraction can lead to a suspended license charge if your driving privileges aren’t valid. Possible Defenses Depending on the circumstances, an attorney may be able to challenge the charge by showing: You were not aware your license was suspended (though this defense has limits) The DMV or court made an administrative error in suspending your license You were driving in a true emergency situation In some cases, your lawyer may be able to negotiate for a reduced charge — such as driving without a valid license — which carries lighter penalties. How to Reinstate Your License The best way to avoid a suspended license charge is to get your license reinstated before driving again. This usually involves: Paying any outstanding fines or fees Providing proof of insurance (SR-22 in some cases) Completing any required classes or court-ordered programs Waiting until the full suspension period has ended Local Defense for Suspended License Charges At Max Stovall Law, we represent clients facing suspended license charges in Douglas County, Washoe County, and across Northern Nevada. We know the local courts, the DMV process, and how to fight for reduced penalties — or get charges dismissed when possible. If you’ve been cited for driving with a suspended license, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start working toward getting you back on the road legally.