Work Release as an Alternative to Custody

Defense from Our Bakersfield DUI Lawyers

Kern County detention facilities often have alternative sentencing programs for those facing custody, such as the Sheriff’s Department work release programs. Work release is often a much more desirable outcome than the other potential scenarios.

Our criminal defense lawyers in Bakersfield can help you apply for work release to avoid the sentencing you may be facing for your crime. This program provides a sense of freedom that would otherwise be taken away by usual criminal sentencing.

If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, schedule a free case review to learn about the best legal options for your particular case.

Work Release Program in Bakersfield

Instead of remaining in custody during your sentence, a person doing the work release program would show up to serve an 8-hour shift at one of Kern County’s 98 work-release job sites. Often, work release will be served on government property, such as near the courthouses or waste management.

Work release will need to be granted and approved by a judge as well as the Sheriff’s Department and there is no guarantee that it will be offered as an option. The catch is that it is a first-come-first-serve program that cannot accommodate the schedule of every individual. Another option that is available in Kern County is community service. Community service can be served in exchange for custody

How to Apply for Work Release

Although it is up to the court to determine if an individual is eligible, our Bakersfield DUI lawyers can speak with the deputy in charge to see if our client can receive approval for work release. There are several reasons that the court may not approve the request for work release; for example, prior criminal history or health-related issues may prevent a person from participating in the program.

If we do, however, convince the deputy in charge, our next step would be to get the judge to agree. The judge can rule independently, even over the objection of the District Attorney. This approval from the judge will only give the defendant the right to apply for work release. If their application is approved, they can receive work release.

Don't face this complex process alone. Schedule a free legal consultation and have our attorneys work with you every step of the way.