A criminal conviction does not always mean jail or prison time, or even hefty fines. Your defense attorney may be able to secure an alternative sentence that would have a less detrimental effect on your life. This is more likely if:
- This is your first offense or you have minimal criminal history.
- The crime was not violent.
- The outcome of the crime was not extremely costly or you agree to pay the costs.
- You make a positive impression in court.
- You have an addiction and a case can be made that addiction treatment would be helpful.
- There were extenuating circumstances.
When you work with the law firm of Greg Smith and Associates, your criminal defense attorney will review all of these factors with you and advise you of the potential for an alternative sentence and the availability of treatment programs. Our lead attorneys have prosecutorial experience. We are prepared to negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf.
Set up a free consultation with one of our attorneys by contacting us online or calling 801-651-1512.
Presentencing Information Gathering
At sentencing, the judge will allow people to come forward to make statements on your behalf regarding your good character and your role in the family and community. Victims of the crime will also have a chance to make statements.
Also during this time, a probation officer will prepare a presentence statement for the judge to review, containing information about the facts of the case and about your character and life and any mitigating factors. Your lawyer will be able to review this report before it is submitted to the judge.
Alternative Sentences
Probation: Instead of being sentenced to jail time, you may be able to serve your sentence on probation. Or your sentence may be suspended, meaning you don’t have to serve your jail sentence, but you must still fulfill the requirements of probation. These requirements may include:
- Checking in with a probation officer
- Random drug or alcohol testing
- Substance abuse counseling or rehab if your drug crime was the result of addiction
- An anger management class
- Psychological counseling or psychiatric treatment
- Community service
Fines: You may be required to pay fines to your probation officer or to the victim of the offense.
Contact Our Utah Criminal Law Attorneys
If you are wondering whether alternative sentencing with treatment programs is an option in your criminal law case, contact a Salt Lake City criminal law attorney at Greg Smith and Associates to schedule a free initial consultation at our West Jordan or Park City law office. Call 801-651-1512.
