Probation is a chance to remain free (or serve only a short time) given by a judge to a person convicted of a crime instead of being sent to jail or prison, provided the person can be good. Probation is only given under specific court-ordered terms, such as performing public service work, staying away from liquor, paying a fine, maintaining good behavior, getting mental therapy and reporting regularly to a probation officer. Violation of probation terms will usually result in the person being sent to jail for the normal term. Repeat criminals are normally not eligible for probation. Probation is not the same as "parole," which is freedom under certain restrictions given to convicts at the end of their imprisonment.
It is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to understand the potential consequences and options available to you. Given your prior felony probation status, you may face more severe penalties. Be honest with your attorney about the circumstances of your case so they can provide you with the best possible defense strategy.
Jail Time for EminemMarshall Mathers, III (aka Eminem) was arrested twice in June 2000 on gun charges in Michigan, and was hit in 2001 with probationary sentences in both cases, one in Royal Oak, the other in Warren (below you'll find mug shots from both those arrests). The rapper was nabbed by Warren cops for carrying a concealed weapon and assault after fighting with a man he saw kissing his estranged wife Kim outside of a club. He also got popped for brandishing a weapon during a parking lot beef with members of the rival rap outfit "Insane Clown Posse".