You may be able to avoid jail through alternative sentencing

If you have been accused of committing a crime, it is likely that you are not only worried about having a criminal record but also about the possibility of facing jail time. By taking early action to form your defense, you will have the best possible chance of being able to show that you are innocent or lower the severity of the charges.

Even if you are found guilty of a crime, there may be other ways to avoid jail time, especially if you are a first-time offender. The ways to avoid jail time are known as alternative sentences, and they are generally offered to limit any negative effect on dependent children or to potentially help the accused to get their life back on track and avoid committing a crime in the future. The following are some forms of alternative sentences that may be available to you.

Suspended sentences and substance abuse programs

Depending on factors such as the severity of the crime, the age of the accused and the defendant’s criminal history, a suspended sentence may be offered. The suspended sentence may be conditional or unconditional. An unconditional suspended sentence means that no actions need to be taken by the defendant. A conditional suspended sentence means that the defendant needs to undertake certain actions such as going through a substance abuse program in order to avoid jail time.

Probation

Probation is similar to a suspended sentence but tends to have more requirements. You may be required to refrain from visiting certain people or places or take frequent drug tests to avoid jail time.

Restitution or fines

You may need to pay fines to the court or pay people affected by the crimes you committed to successfully avoid jail time.

If you have been accused of a crime in Texas, it is vital that you do not delay taking action to form your defense, since this could have a huge impact on the outcome.