Washington DUI Alternative Sentence Attorney
What is Alternative Sentencing?
Washington alternative sentencing is a sentencing program that is an alternative to jail. A judge may use such a sentencing program to punish someone who is, for example, a first-time offender with no prior criminal record or someone who has committed a relatively small crime. It is quite common in Washington driving under the influence cases (DUI) cases, especially if the defendant is a first-time offender and if the DUI incident does not involve any injuries or fatalities.
Alternative sentencing includes community-based programs such as community service such as graffiti clean-up or street clean-up, work release programs and enrolling in a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program. You may be eligible for alternative sentencing if:
- You have not committed a "serious" crime
- You don't have a prior criminal record
- You have not committed more than one crime
- You have not committed a serious felony, especially if the crime involved the use of a weapon or a firearm
- You don't pose a danger to yourself or the community
A skilled Tacoma DUI defense attorney will be able to obtain alternatives to jail for eligible clients. Here are some of the ways you could avoid jail time if you have been convicted of a DUI:
Electronic Monitoring: This is also known as "house arrest." This type of detainment involves the defendant wearing an ankle bracelet, which electronically monitors the where he or she is at all times. Those under such monitoring may even be able to attend work or school as long as they return home at the required time.
Work Release and Work Furlough: This is where a participant works at a site determined by the state Probation Department. They then get to return home at night. A "work furlough" is a little different in that participants are able to keep their own job, but return to a dormitory-type facility at night.
City Jail: Many local police departments have this program wherein participants check themselves into city jail and usually spend the night there. They are released the following day, usually.
Alcohol and/or Drug Rehabilitation Program: Sometimes, people who are convicted of a DUI don't need jail. They need help with their addictions. These types of programs in some cases may be a good alternative to jail or heavy monetary penalties. Some programs also require offenders to live in sober living homes or group homes.
A skilled Seattle DUI attorney will talk to his or her clients and determine what the best alternative is for the client. If you or someone you know has been accused of a DUI, please call an experienced DUI defense attorney at McNeese & Trotsky PLLC. for a free consultation.
Free consultations ● Our Washington drunk driving defense law office is located in the heart of downtown Seattle, just a few blocks from the King County courthouse