Many of those convicted of Driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Minnesota are forced to serve their sentence in jail. Although the law often leaves judges with few options, a skilled Minnesota DWI attorney can work with a judge to find an alternative to jail time, or at least reduce your sentence.
DWI jail alternatives explained:
- Work release. This is a special sentence in which a person is able to work at a predetermined location during daytime hours. Probation departments decide the work site. Once work is finished for the day, the participant is allowed to return home, but may not go anywhere else until work begins the next day.
- Work furlough. This is similar to work release, however an individual must still reside in jail. They are released to the job site during the day, but must return to dormitory in the jail each night.
- City jail. In this instance, individuals are only incarcerated at night. Each day they are released freely, as long as they return to jail at the end of the day.
- Rehabilitation. If an individual suffers from drug or alcohol dependence, they may be recommended for addiction counseling. Depending on the client, counseling may consist of inpatient or outpatient care.
- Electronic monitoring. Commonly known as “house arrest”, this sentence requires an individual to wear a monitoring bracelet on their ankle. The bracelet will constantly monitor their location electronically. They may be allowed to attend school or work, but are generally required to return to their home each night.
- Sober house. For individuals who have a long history of drug or alcohol problems, a sober living facility may be recommended. These are homes where an individual will live with other sober people under some supervision. They may be required to attend 12-Step meetings and follow other rules of the house.
How to pursue alternatives to jail:
If you have a DWI conviction pending, hiring an experienced and knowledgeable DWI attorney is the best way to pursue jail alternatives. Your attorney will work hard to make sure you stay out of jail and are offered one these alternatives instead.
It is important to remember that jail is the typical sentence for a DWI. However, depending on the jurisdiction, first-time DWIs have the best chance of avoiding jail time and landing an alternative sentence. If you are concerned about facing possible jail time, contact Mark Herman for a free consultation.
Learn More About DWI Cases:
- Bail Bonds and DWI Cases
- Breath and Blood Tests
- Commercial DWI Information
- Civil Penalties for DWI Cases
- DWI Court Procedures
- Getting Arrested for DWI Without a Driver’s License
- DWI Work Permit Information
- Implied Consent Laws
- How Does Minnesota Establish DWI Bail?
- Multiple Arrests for DWI in Minnesota? What Now?
- DWI Cases for Non-Citizens
- What is a Qualified Prior Impaired Driving Incident?
- What is Reasonable Suspicion?
- DWI Cases and Vehicle Forfeitures
