Reviewed on: April 27,2026

Probation Violated on Non-Payment After a Disaster, What Now

I have a violation on my probation for non-payment. I was a victim of a disaster from Hurricane Harvey and had to get assistance from FEMA. I have the documents to prove it. What can I do to prove that I can't pay because I don't have anythin?

Asked: March 22, 2018
Author: Nakeshia
Ask the inmate answer
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The documentation you have is exactly what you need, and using it proactively is the right move. Request a meeting with your probation officer as soon as possible, bring every document you have, FEMA assistance records, damage assessments, proof of displacement, financial statements, and anything else that demonstrates the financial impact of the disaster. Do not wait for the violation process to unfold without getting your side of the story in front of the right person first.

Probation officers have more discretion than most people realize. A PO who sees a person making a genuine good-faith effort to comply, even under serious hardship, responds very differently than one dealing with someone who has simply gone silent on their obligations. Being upfront, showing up with documentation, and asking to work out a modified payment arrangement based on whatever income or assistance you are currently receiving is far better than waiting for the violation to escalate.

If you are receiving any FEMA assistance, disaster relief funds, or other benefits, show what you have coming in and propose a payment amount based on that. Courts and probation officers are generally willing to accept minimal good-faith payments when the circumstances genuinely support the hardship claim. What they do not accept is no communication and no effort.

If the violation goes to a hearing, bring the same documentation and present it clearly. A natural disaster is a recognized hardship that courts do take into account.

https://www.inmateaid.com/ask-the-inmate/probation-violated-on-non-payment-after-a-disaster-what-now#answer
Accepted Answer Date Created: March 23,2018