When you are facing criminal charges the prospect of being sentenced to jail can be scary and overwhelming. There are many reasons to hire a defense attorney after being arrested, including the lawyer’s ability to help you avoid jail time. Although there is no way to guarantee that you will not face a term of imprisonment, experienced attorneys with a thorough knowledge of the law can offer skilled assistance in your case in an effort to prevent that outcome. Speak with a Rockland County criminal defense attorney for more information and representation during your case.
How Can My Attorney Help Me Avoid Jail Time?
If you have been arrested for criminal charges, your attorney may be able to help you avoid jail in the following ways.
- Plea bargain: A great way that your attorney can help you avoid jail time is by negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecution. A plea bargain, or plea deal, is an agreement where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to the charges or lesser charges in exchange for a reduced sentence. Your attorney can negotiate on your behalf to strike a bargain and minimize the penalties you will face. Through this process, you may be able to receive a fine or probation instead of jail time.
- Challenge evidence: Evidence is paramount in any criminal case. Before your case even goes to trial your attorney can help you avoid jail time by challenging the prosecution’s evidence against you. They can petition the court to suppress evidence if it is circumstantial, inadmissible, was obtained illegally, etc. By weakening the opposing side’s case in any way your lawyer can help prevent you from being sentenced to jail.
- Win: Though it may seem obvious, the best way your lawyer can help you avoid imprisonment is by winning the case and securing you a verdict of “not guilty.” Your attorney can do this by challenging the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and providing compelling information to cast doubt on the opposing side’s case.
- Alternative sentencing: If you do receive a guilty verdict and are convicted of the crime, an attorney can work to get you alternative sentencing options to avoid jail time. You will still face penalties appropriate for the crime but you may be able to remain free while serving your time.
What Alternatives Are There to Jail?
The only way to avoid criminal penalties is by being found not guilty. If you are convicted of a crime you will likely face a variety of penalties. Some alternative sentencing to jail or imprisonment can include the following.
- Probation
- House arrest
- Additional fines
- Restitution
- Mandatory community service
- Rehabilitation programs
These alternative penalties allow you to serve time or be penalized without serving time in jail. For more information on how you can secure alternative sentencing and avoid jail time, reach out to an experienced attorney today.
