Can I be held in custody even if bail is granted on the new charge?

Yes. Probation authorities or the prosecutor may issue a detainer, which can prevent release from custody even if bail is granted on the new criminal charge.

Why should I speak with a lawyer if I’m arrested while on probation in Delaware County?

A defense attorney can review your situation, explain potential consequences, and help protect your rights in both the probation matter and the new criminal case.

What Happens When You’re Arrested While on Probation

Q: What happens if I’m arrested while on probation in Delaware County, Pennsylvania?

An arrest while on probation in Delaware County may trigger probation violation proceedings, which can result in additional court hearings and possible custody while the new case is pending.

Q: Do probation consequences require a conviction on the new charge?

No. Depending on the circumstances, probation consequences may occur before the new criminal case is resolved.

Q: What happens if I’m convicted of a new offense while on probation?

A conviction can result in a sentence for the new offense and a separate sentence for violating probation, increasing overall sentencing exposure.

Q: Are probation violation outcomes the same in every Delaware County case?

No. Each case is fact-specific and depends on factors such as the nature of the new charges, prior criminal history, and compliance with probation conditions.

About Attorney William Burrows Esq.

Attorney William Burrows offers a distinct advantage rooted in his experience on the prosecutorial side of the courtroom.

Clients trust Attorney William Burrows for his straightforward communication, calculated defense strategies, and extensive courtroom experience.

Having worked closely with the Commonwealth, he understands how criminal cases are investigated and argued.

Burrows is a earned his law degree from Villanova University and previously served as an Assistant District Attorney in Philadelphia.

About SKA Law Group

Charges William Burrows Defends

Posted :

Jan 28, 2026

in : Defending Your Rights

by :

William Burrows

In Delaware County, being arrested while you are on probation can carry serious legal consequences and may affect both your new criminal case and your existing probation sentence under Pennsylvania law.

Table of Contents

How Does a New Arrest Affect Current Probation

When someone on probation in Delaware County is arrested and charged with a new criminal offense, probation authorities often treat the arrest as a direct violation of probation. In many cases, the probation department or the prosecutor’s office may issue a detainer. A detainer can prevent release from custody while the new charges are pending, even if bail is granted on the new case.

What Happens if the New Charges Result in a Conviction

If the new criminal charge results in a conviction, the court may impose separate penalties. This can include a sentence for the new offense as well as an additional sentence for violating probation in the prior case. As a result, a conviction while on probation can significantly increase overall sentencing exposure.

Probation-related consequences may also arise before the new criminal case is resolved. Depending on the facts, Delaware County courts and probation officials have discretion to take action based on the arrest or charges alone. Each case is evaluated individually, with consideration given to the nature of the new charges, prior criminal history, and compliance with probation conditions.

If you have been arrested while on probation in Delaware County, it is important to speak with a defense attorney as soon as possible. Attorney William Weiss can review your situation, explain potential outcomes, and develop a strategy focused on protecting your rights and minimizing additional penalties.

FAQ: Arrest While on Probation in Delaware County, PA

What happens if I’m arrested while on probation in Delaware County?

An arrest may trigger probation violation proceedings, which can result in additional court hearings and possible custody while the new case is pending.

Can I remain in jail even if bail is granted on the new charge?

Yes. A detainer may be filed by probation or the prosecutor, which can prevent release even if bail is posted.

Do probation consequences require a conviction on the new charge?

Not necessarily. In some cases, probation-related action may occur before the new criminal case is resolved, depending on the circumstances and court discretion.

What happens if I’m convicted of a new offense while on probation?

The court may impose a sentence for the new conviction and a separate sentence for violating probation, increasing total penalties.

Are probation violation outcomes the same in every Delaware County case?

No. Outcomes vary based on factors such as the seriousness of the new charges, prior criminal history, and compliance with probation conditions.

Why should I contact a lawyer if I’m arrested while on probation in Delaware County?

A defense attorney can evaluate your exposure, address potential probation violations, and help protect your rights in both the new case and the probation matter.