How to Avoid Jail Time with Alternative Sentencing Options
Do you fear that your freedom is on the line due to an impending court trial?
Are you apprehensive about jail time and are wondering how to pilot through lost wages while doing time?
If you’ve just been charged with a criminal offense such as domestic violence, driving under the influence, petty theft, possession of drugs, or some other misdemeanor offense, are there alternatives to jail time? The answer is maybe – depending on the details of the case.
A lawyer can work toward getting the lowest sentencing possible; dismissing the charges; or, keeping you out of jail so that you can continue with life.
Here are some of the top alternative options to jail:
- Probation – has its own set of rules in each case. The offender will need to meet all the prerequisites, like not committing new or repeat offenses during probation. Offenders will also need to report to the assigned probation officer periodically, and remain within state lines.
- Electronic Monitoring – in many cases offenders can carry on with their daily lives by wearing an ankle bracelet. Offenders will be restricted when travelling outside their homes, in that they can only travel to work, school or treatment programs for instance. Typically if offenders violate the terms of the electronic monitoring, then an arrest will be made.
- Drug and Alcohol Treatment Program – which is popular with DUI offenders or nonviolent drug offenders. If found in possession of drugs for instance, and the quantity held is limited, these programs are usually granted for first time offenders. Treatment programs are mutually beneficial to offenders and society, since they teach ways to curb addiction.
- House Arrest – offenders must remain in their home while under arrest. This is restricted to certain crimes, and is typically valid for first time offenders who are sentenced to under a year imprisonment. An attorney can make a strong case for helping to secure this option verses jail time.
Worth Noting: These alternatives may not always be available. Alternative sentencing options are largely dependent on the jurisdiction of the case; the offender’s criminal history; and other details of the case.
As an example, driver’s education in lieu of conviction for reckless driving may be available in other counties, but this isn’t the case in Fairfax County.
Similarly, drug diversion programs may only be available for non-violent offenders since many lawmakers believe that addicts and society would be better off getting help to overcome addiction, rather than being sent to jail.
