WHAT IS ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING?
If you do the crime, you do the time. We all know that. But what many don’t know is that in the State of California, there is a way you can avoid jail or prison time even if you have been convicted of a crime or have pleaded guilty to a crime. It’s called “alternative sentencing.” In these cases, a judge while sentencing you, will give you options other than incarceration, based on terms that are agreed to by the prosecutor.
In many cases, there are creative alternatives to jail time. Many prosecuting agencies and courts make diversion programs available to defendants that are essentially alternatives to a jail or prison sentence. These alternatives may include alcohol or drug treatment, rehab, community service, house arrest, work release and so on. A knowledgeable and experienced California defense attorney can help you examine and assess your options and help determine which ones are best suited for your specific situation.
You may qualify for alternative sentencing if:
- You have not committed a violent crime involving weapons or are gang-related
- You have committed a minor offense for the first time and don’t have a prior criminal history
- You are not a danger to yourself or to the members of your community
- You can show genuine remorse and a willingness to reform – especially in drug-and alcohol-related offenses
ALTERNATIVES TO INCARCERATION
- Electronic Monitoring, House Arrest or Home Detention
- Work Release or Work Furlough Programs
- Drug Courts
- City Jail or Private Jail
- Diversion Programs
- Sober Living
- Community Service
WHY ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING?
With Alternative Sentencing you end up avoiding jail. You may continue to go about your normal life. You can keep your job and continue to perform your daily activities such as spending time with your family, attending church, work or school. However, not everybody will qualify for such a sentencing and an alternative sentence definitely does not mean you’re getting off. You are still serving time and you are still being punished. But alternative sentencing gives you an opportunity to lead a normal life and stay out of jail while you serve your sentencing.
If you have been charged with a crime in the State of California, call our experienced contact us so you can explore your options and see if you will qualify for alternative sentencing. Call us to schedule your free consultation.
