When Would Someone Be Offered An Alternative Sentence To Jail In Illinois?

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What Are Sentencing Alternatives In Illinois? Are They A Good Option For Everyone?

There are many alternative sentencing options in Illinois. Oftentimes, these sentences involve performing a significant amount of community service through the Sherriff’s Work Alternative Program (SWAP). Aside from parents who work full time and may not be able to meet the time commitment of such a program, these alternatives are good for most people. If an individual cannot commit to an alternative program, they might be able to serve their sentence by spending only the weekends in jail. Deferred prosecution, enrollment in drug classes, and attending theft school are other alternative forms of sentencing that may apply.

Probation is also considered a sentencing alternative. There are first-offender probations in Illinois for drugs and cannabis called 410 or 710 probations. If completed, you can have your case dismissed and expunged, which means you could prevent a felony conviction from ending up on your record. In Illinois, we have first-offender gun probation, which under very limited circumstances allows a person who has been caught with a gun to avoid a felony conviction. If you are a drug addict or addicted to alcohol, then you can ask the court to be treated as an addict and sentenced to TASC probation. In essence, TASC is an intensive probation with intensive drug and alcohol treatment. If you complete it, then you can avoid a felony conviction. There are also other alternative programs which would avoid prison, such as mental health court, drug court, or second chance probation.

What Happens If I Do Not Complete The Alternative Sentence?

It’s important to not pick up a new case while you are on probation. If you violate the terms of probation, then the deal will be off, you can be re-sentenced to anything, and any additional charge will be added to the first and subject to mandatory consecutive sentencing.

For more information on Alternative Sentences To Jail In Illinois, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (815) 290-9170 today.