If you are convicted of a crime and face the possibility of jail time, you may be interested in learning more about house arrest. The court can decide to place someone under house arrest instead of jail time. For many, home confinement is a better option than spending time in jail, and they would much rather spend their sentence at home. However, not everyone is eligible for house arrest, and some may find it difficult to stay home with limited outside exposure.
There are many aspects of house arrest that an individual needs to be aware of before making the decision to seek confinement. Discussing the details and requirements with a reliable and trustworthy defense attorney can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of home confinement.
Qualifications for Home Confinement in Pennsylvania
Some crimes and offenses make you ineligible for house arrest, so talking with your defense attorney about your eligibility is important. Below are the requirements you need to qualify for home confinement:
- You are a nonviolent, low-risk offender
- You are not prohibited from house arrest by a judge
- You have a compatible phone in your residence
- You were sentenced to the county jail
- You agree to the terms and conditions of home confinement
- Based on your ability to pay, you’re able to afford home confinement fees
- Your permanent or temporary residence is in or near the county where you were sentenced
These qualifications are part of the house arrest program in Pennsylvania.
After figuring out if you qualify for home confinement, your attorney will note that these rules are strict and can’t be broken. Having a clear understanding of the requirements and penalties of disregarding them is essential when seeking this alternative to jail time.
What You Need to Know About Pennsylvania’s House Arrest
While many find house arrest the better option, many lack in-depth knowledge of the process and system in place. It is easy to get swept up in the happiness that you’ll be able to spend your sentence at home when you forget that your home is essentially a jail. Even if it may feel like home, there are some things you should know before signing up.
Consulting a criminal defense lawyer is crucial to navigating the house arrest process effectively.
Replacement for Incarceration or Bail
The great thing about house arrest is that you are able to stay in the comfort of your home instead of spending your sentence in jail. House arrest can also be used post-trial as an alternative to jail or prison. This option is liked by those who qualify due to their ability to reflect on their punishment at home.
May Require a Landline Phone
Nowadays, most households replace their home phones with cell phones. When you are on house arrest, you must have a landline phone if your cell phone’s signal is not strong enough.
Home Is Now Considered Jail
It may be hard to distinguish between staying at home and being forced to stay inside your house. You are essentially in jail, but your house might make you feel too comfortable. It’s vital that you follow the rules and remember your permitted activities.
Electronic Monitoring Device
To make sure you are following the rules and staying inside your home, an electronic monitoring device will track you throughout your time on house arrest. This device is part of the restrictive conditions of house arrest, ensuring compliance with the terms of your confinement. It is not always required, but when it is, it will stay on your body at all times.
House arrest is an excellent option for those with the opportunity to qualify. Talk with your attorney for more information about how home confinement can work for your unique situation.
Contact a Dependable Defense Attorney in Pennsylvania
Every case is different, and the penalties depend on the severity of the crime and the number of prior offenses. Talk with one of our reliable defense attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford to see how you can qualify for house arrest. House arrest can be part of a probation program with restrictive conditions. With over 65 years of representing clients around the Pennsylvania area, we are proud to dedicate our resources and knowledge to those within the community.
Call (215) 822-7575 or fill out our contact form for more information about how our team can assist you.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
June 20, 2024
