Individuals Can Serve Alternative Sentences Instead of Going to Jail
Those convicted of a crime can be eligible for alternative sentencing options. Eligibility for these sentences in and around Radford, VA, will depend on several factors. You need an experienced attorney to explain any possible alternative penalties. This month, Turk & Turk, P.C. will discuss alternative sentencing options.
First, we will explain the qualifications for alternative sentences. Then, we will provide a list of possible sentencing options in Radford, VA, and the surrounding areas. Finally, our law firm will discuss certain programs for individuals in specific situations. Turk & Turk, P.C. takes great pride in educating clients about different potential penalties.
Understand If You Qualify for Alternative Sentencing
Individuals convicted of criminal offenses in and around Radford, VA, can receive a substitute sentence. Eligibility for alternate sentences depends on the nature of the crime, details of the charge, and criminal history. Courts take all of these factors into account when determining the proper sentence. When the state presents a strong case ending in an inevitable conviction, your attorney can negotiate a sentencing alternative. This option can keep you from incarceration.
Learn About Alternative Sentences in Radford, VA, and Beyond
If a court convicts you of a crime, your main worry is most likely the fear of going to prison. However, the Commonwealth of Virginia has several sentencing alternatives to jail in many locations. Having a substitute sentence may allow you to continue your job or undergo drug and alcohol treatment, where appropriate. Some alternative penalties include:
Probation
This sentence means that you don’t have to serve your sentence as long as you comply with the conditions. Probation may involve placing you on active supervision or unsupervised probation.
Weekend Jail Time
Some jails allow people to serve jail sentences on the weekends so they can remain employed. Each jurisdiction has its own application process and requirements.
Work Release
If a court grants a work release, individuals can leave jail to go to work each day. Similar to weekend jail programs, each county has its own requirements to determine eligibility.
House Arrest
This sentence is also known as an electronic incarceration program. It allows you to remain at home and continue employment instead of serving your sentence in jail.
Community Service
In some instances, a person may receive a community service sentence instead of jail time. Judges usually set a specific number of hours that the individual must perform.
Fine
Monetary fines are the most common form of alternative sentencing. In criminal cases, judges often use fines as an additional punishment rather than an alternative. However, an intelligent attorney has the ability to negotiate a fine in exchange for lowering or eliminating a jail term.
Certain Charges May Qualify for Programs That Get Charges Dropped
These programs are sometimes called deferred adjudication or diversion. The goal is to take the individual out of the normal prosecution process so they can complete certain conditions. Once they have completed this process, the court or the prosecutor will dismiss the charges.
Diversion programs are designed to allow the individual time to demonstrate that they have the capability to behave responsibly. Courts typically use these programs for drug offenses or first-time offenders. Usually, the imposed conditions include some form of counseling or probation. These programs also require the individual to stay out of trouble.
Seek the Help of An Experienced Attorney for Alternative Sentencing
Some crimes committed in the Commonwealth of Virginia can carry an alternative punishment as opposed to jail. No matter what charge you face, only an experienced criminal defense attorney can determine your best course of action. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can help you convince the judge to rule for an alternative sentence.
An attorney can also help present the information to the court in a positive way. Doing so can influence the court to rule for a lighter or alternative sentence in your case. Going to prison can be a scary experience, but a lawyer can help you possibly avoid it. If you have been charged with a crime in the Commonwealth of Virginia recently, give our law firm a call.
The Criminal Law Attorneys at Turk & Turk, P.C. Have Your Back
Turk & Turk, P.C. has served clients in and around Radford, VA, for more than 70 years. We believe that each case carries its own unique characteristics, and our lawyers can handle them all. Sentencing is a challenging aspect of court cases everywhere, and we will help you get the best result possible.
Clients in Radford, VA, and beyond have trusted our criminal law attorneys. Turk & Turk, P.C. is proud to provide clients in Radford, VA, and the surrounding areas with solid criminal law defenses. Our experienced lawyers will fight for you. Sometimes, you may not realize that a conviction qualifies for an alternative sentence, but we will explain it to you. For more information on our criminal law services in and around Radford, VA, contact us.
Learn more about alternative sentencing options by calling Turk & Turk, P.C. at (540) 639-9056. Clients can also email our office to reach our attorneys. Please feel free to like our Facebook page for the latest company happenings. We have served Radford, VA, and the surrounding areas for more than seven decades. Our law firm strives to serve clients throughout the Commonwealth in the best way possible. Turk & Turk, P.C. will explain any alternative sentencing options.
