By: Joseph Devine
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There are many reasons why people do not want to go to jail, besides the actual prison time itself. In addition to the physical incarceration, you are unable to work and provide for your loved ones as well as attend the substance abuse rehabilitation programs that you may need. Thus, it is no surprise that many people who are convicted of crimes choose to undergo diversionary proceedings in hopes of receiving a punishment alternative to jail.
When you are convicted of a crime, you may expect to pay a fine as well as possibly endure time in prison. However, there are cases in which your attorney may be able to pursue diversionary proceedings in order to possibly dismiss your sentence. Additionally, you may be able to ask for alternatives to incarceration.
To be eligible for either of these options, you typically must be a first-time offender or have only committed a minor crime. A judge will look at your record in order to determine if he or she will grant your request. If a judge decides that this is an option, your defense attorney and the judge handling your case will probably work together to decide on a sentence that still functions as a punishment.
Diversionary programs are instances in which you agree to plead guilty to a crime, attend any classes or perform any community service required by the court, pay any fines, and fulfill any other court requirements in order to have your charge dismissed. However, you must successfully complete all of the requirements of the court; if not, you may have to face the original jail time or punishment due to your crime.
There are certain cases where the court will allow you to participate in alternatives to jail rather than forcing you to go into confinement. These alternatives include:
– House arrest/monitoring
– Community service
– Work release
– Substance abuse rehabilitation or therapy
– Probation
The benefits of jail alternatives are that you have easier access to your loved ones as well as your lawyers. Additionally, you may still be able to work or look for a job so that you can provide for your family. If you have a drug or alcohol abuse problem which led to your original crime, you can attend classes and therapy to help you beat your addiction.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime, you may find that diversionary programs or jail alternatives are an option. To help you in this process, contact the criminal defense attorney Daniel Jensen, PC today.
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