Alternative Sentences

Click for FREE Alternative Sentences Info!!

Alternatives to Jail in Illinois

If you have committed a crime, you may have alternatives to jail and conviction. A number of misdemeanor and felony diversion programs exist in more progressive counties like Cook County, Will County, Kane County, and McHenry County. Alternatives to jail also exist in DuPage County.

The defense lawyers at Brucar & Yetter have extensive experience in working with the court to explore various alternative sentences and diversion program options. Even in cases involving domestic violence and battery, offenders may be able to participate in programs that will prevent convictions from appearing on their records, as well as keep them out of jail.

Get the help you need to avoid re-offending later - contact the Illinois criminal defense attorneys at the law office of Brucar & Yetter today. We have offices in Wheaton and Rolling Meadows, and we provide free, confidential consultations.

What Exactly is a Diversion Program?

Diversion programs were created as means for combating recidivism (repeat offenders). Seeking to address behavioral problems and addictions at the root of drug, theft, and domestic violence cases, diversion options involve mandatory education and counseling programs as a way of preventing future criminal behavior.

These alternative sentence programs are designed to help people struggling with addiction, violence, and behavioral issues, instead of simply punishing them. In many cases, the court may agree to reduce or drop criminal charges against someone in return for their participation in a misdemeanor or felony diversion program.

Additionally, diversion programs are an effective intervention tool. Rather than sending non-violent, first-time offenders to prison with violent murderers and rapists, diversion programs give people a second chance instead of throwing them into the general prison population.

The problem is that these misdemeanor and felony diversion programs are run by different agencies, prosecutor's offices, hospitals, and individual towns. The defense lawyers at Brucar & Yetter have the great deal of experience it takes in this area of law to even understand what alternative sentencing is available.

Is There Anything I Need to Do to Participate?

The criminal defense attorneys at Brucar & Yetter understand how these programs work and how to position your case in pleading with the court on your behalf. Many counties offer theft school, as well as numerous programs through the Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC) initiative in Illinois. After evaluating the charges against you and your particular program, our office will work with the court in arranging a plea bargain requiring your participation in exchange for a reduced sentence or probation.

Questions? Contact Brucar & Yetter Today

No matter how bad things may first appear, you still have a number of options and possibilities. You need the help of a team of attorneys familiar with the law and how the court system works. At Brucar & Yetter, we offer clients more than 40 years of experience in handling criminal felony and misdemeanor cases.