This is really going to mean a balancing act, and the attitude of the administrative officer who hears the charge. Has your PO already issued a warrant? There’s a chance you can still explain what happened: but don’t be defensive or make excuses. The PO has a lot of power in Arizona and you may end up being violated with no bond at the arraignment. What you want is to admit your mistake (if you were wrong and are caught cold) and show a willingness to fix it, so that you can get a PR. This means reaching an agreement with your PO…but you better have some string support for your PO to believe you. If you didn’t violate, then start getting witnesses and evidence.

If you violated for the first time, or was it the fifth time?…and then, why were you originally sent to prison? balanced with “what was the violation?”. If the original offense was drug-related, show how a chance at a new treatment is now likely to work. Some people have also had success (both in the treatment and in avoiding revocation of parole) by working with an area church or religious group. This often means starting counseling before the actual Probation Violation hearing, so that you might show some change, and have some hope, and maybe someone (such as a minister, cleric, priest, or rabbi) being allowed to speak up for you at the hearing. The fact you are looking for help now is a good start.