When someone is brought to court for driving under the influence (DUI) charges, the sentencing will vary greatly depending on the specifics of the case. One aspect does remain fairly constant: jail or prison time. In Kansas City - either in Missouri or Kansas - a first-time conviction for a DUI offense can include up to 6 months in jail. As more convictions are added to the individual's record, jail sentences increase.Locking someone behind bars for an extended period of time is not always beneficial to any party involved. The state or local governments will need to provide for the incarcerated, and the incarcerated can contribute nothing back to society. In many ways, this can be viewed as a "lose-lose" situation. To avoid putting everyone at a disadvantage, alternative sentences in DUI convictions can be used.What are Common Alternative DUI Sentences?Alternative sentences are meant to help the convicted get sober and deter them from ever drinking and driving again. To this end, alcohol education and rehabilitation is frequently offered. Community service can be used to help them get a better sense of the importance of the people in their neighborhood. House arrest with or without work release may sometimes be considered in lien of jail. Probation and suspended sentences may also be part of the sentence. In such cases, the convicted will be placed on probation and allowed to drive using a restricted permit; if they violate the conditions of their probation - such as drinking and driving, or committing any vehicle-related crime - the other portions of the original sentence are triggered.While your own DUI and criminal histories will play a role in what alternative sentences are available to you, retaining Kansas City DUI Attorney Steve Schanker can help increase your chances of securing a beneficial outcome to your case. With the help of his firm, you may be able to argue that putting you in jail or exacting high fines against you will do nothing but cause more harm, and that alternative sentencing should be considered. To learn more about his practice, call 816.607.8860 today and request a free case evaluation.
