City Jail Programs
These programs usually offer an alternative to serving time in county jail. Those who have been sentenced to jail as a result of a misdemeanor conviction such as driving under the influence or a case that does not involve drugs, may be eligible to opt for this program with the approval of the sentencing court. This program is not free. There will be a daily fee, which depends on the city where the jail is located.
Usually time at city jails may be served through a work furlough program where defendants may maintain their work schedule during the day and serve week nights and weekends in jail. Or they may serve their sentences on consecutive days including weekends. The time served will be calculated on an hour for hour basis. For example, if a defendant reports for 12 hours each night for two nights, he or she will get credit for one day.
The other advantage of serving time this way is that you will usually be housed separately from other inmates and have minimal contact with the regular inmate population at meal times. You may however have to assist with small jobs such as food preparation, cleaning, laundry and so on. Those who are not able to follow the rules and instructions given to them will likely be dismissed from the program.
There are advantages and disadvantages to opting for this type of alternative sentencing. A private or city jail can certainly be more pleasant and comfortable than county jail, but it can become quite expensive if you want to serve out a longer sentence. City jails charge more than $100 a day in fees to those who opt for this program.
Not everyone may be eligible for this program. But it is a creative alternative to spending time in county jail. If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, call us for a free consultation and to examine your options.
