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

Defending clients charged with felonies and misdemeanors in Victoria, DeWitt (Cuero), Gonzales, Goliad, Refugio, Calhoun (Port Lavaca), Lavaca (Hallettsville), Bee (Beeville), Karnes, and Jackson (Edna) Counties, Texas.

Overview

If you’re on probation and the state just filed a Motion to Revoke (MTR) or Motion to Adjudicate, a judge could issue a warrant at any moment and send you to jail with no bond.

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.

Common Reasons for Probation Violations

Probation violations are often based on:

  • Missed check-ins or failure 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.

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.

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.

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.

Call (361) 648-1759 for your free phone or in-person consultation. I will answer your questions.