Probation Violations & Motions to Revoke (MTRs) and Motions to Adjudicate Guilt (MTAGs)

Overview

If you’re on probation and the state just filed a Motion to Revoke (MTR) or Motion to Adjudicate, you’re already behind the eight ball. A judge could issue a warrant at any moment and send you to jail with no bond. You need to act fast—and you need someone who knows how to fight these cases before they snowball.

I’m Richard Hinds. I’ve been defending Texans in criminal court since 1998. I’m also a licensed private investigator, which gives me a major edge in fighting back against sloppy probation officers, false positives, and missed deadlines. I know how these hearings work and how to beat a revocation. I’ve done it many times.

What Is a Motion to Revoke (or Adjudicate)?

If you’re on regular probation and the state thinks you violated your terms, they’ll file a Motion to Revoke Probation. If you’re on deferred adjudication, they’ll file a Motion to Adjudicate Guilt.

Either one is serious. A judge can issue a “no bond” warrant and order your immediate arrest. Once you’re in custody, you may sit in jail for weeks until your hearing—unless you have an attorney who knows how to get in front of it.

Common Reasons for Probation Violations

Probation violations are often based on:

• Missed check-ins or failed to report

• Failed or missed drug tests (including false positives or delayed results)

• New criminal charges or arrests

• Missed community service hours or classes

• Failure to pay fines, court costs, or restitution

• “Technical” violations like changing jobs or addresses without approval

Sometimes, probation officers file violations just to protect themselves—even when they know your situation was temporary, excusable, or caused by confusion.

Here’s How I Defend These Cases

I don’t show up at your hearing and beg the judge. I get to work before the hearing ever happens:

• I’ll review the violation reports line by line and demand evidence to support every claim.

• I’ll challenge drug tests with expert testimony or retests, especially if chain of custody was broken.

• I’ll gather evidence of compliance—like work logs, receipts, clean tests, and treatment progress—that POs conveniently left out.

• I’ll negotiate with prosecutors to reinstate probation, reduce sanctions, or avoid jail.

• And when the facts support it, I’ll take the matter to hearing and fight the motion head-on.

In many cases, we can show the judge that revocation is too harsh—or that the allegations don’t justify prison.

What Happens at an MTR or MTA Hearing?

These hearings are held in front of the judge only—no jury. The burden of proof is lower than in a trial. The judge can consider hearsay and circumstantial evidence. That’s why preparation is everything.

If your probation is revoked:

• On regular probation, the judge can sentence you to the original jail or prison time.

• On deferred adjudication, the judge can find you guilty and sentence you without a jury—up to the maximum allowed by law.

Why I’m Different From Most Defense Attorneys

I don’t treat probation cases like second-class legal work. These are real criminal cases, and they require aggressive defense.

I’m a trained trial lawyer, a licensed private investigator, and I understand the tactics prosecutors and probation departments use to flip a technical violation into a prison sentence. I have the tools—and the team—to fight back.

You Only Have a Short Window to Respond. Don’t Wait.

The biggest mistake people make is waiting until they’re arrested to call an attorney. That’s often too late to negotiate.

If a motion’s been filed or you think it’s coming:

• Don’t go underground

• Don’t skip another appointment

• Don’t wait until you’re in jail

Call me now. Let’s get ahead of it.

My Fee Covers the Entire Case — No Surprises

I charge one flat fee that includes representation at all hearings, negotiation with prosecutors, and a contested revocation hearing if necessary. I don’t charge more for trial and I include investigative help at no extra cost.

Call or Text 24/7: (361) 648-1759

Richard Hinds, JD/PI – Criminal Defense Attorney & Licensed Private Investigator
Serving Victoria, Cuero, Port Lavaca, Edna, Goliad, Hallettsville, Refugio & Surrounding Areas

Facing a Motion to Revoke or Violate Probation?
STFU. Call Me First. Don’t Let Them Send You Back Without a Fight.

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