House arrest is one of the most common alternatives to traditional incarceration. While it might seem like a more acceptable sentence, it can be somewhat restrictive depending on the parameters of the sentence. Moreover, some rules correspond with house arrest, making it challenging for anyone else living in the home. Yet, it is a preferable alternative for many, especially those eager to remain with loved ones.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford has worked with numerous clients looking for house arrest as a sentencing option. We understand the eligibility factors for those cases that are most likely to successfully garner such a sentence.
What is House Arrest?
House arrest is characterized by confinement to a personal residence instead of a jail. Typically, those on house arrest must provide the address of the dwelling to the court and a supervision professional. Items prohibited from the residence during house arrest typically include:
- Firearms or weapons of any kind
- Drugs
- Alcohol
There are two types of house arrest. The first is pretrial home confinement, which means you are confined to your home while awaiting trial. The second is home confinement as a sentence when you have already been convicted and can serve your time at home.
Who Is Eligible for House Arrest in Pennsylvania?
There is no way to know for sure if your case qualifies for house arrest in Pennsylvania. This is one of the reasons it is critical to work with a knowledgeable Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney from the outset. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, we are familiar with the case types and individuals most likely to receive house arrest as a sentence. They include those who:
- Have non-violent charges
- Have gainful employment
- Are facing less serious charges
- Don’t have an extensive criminal background
- Have family obligations
- Are part of a community service program
This is not an exhaustive list as the court system considers individual cases as they come. However, working with a reputable criminal defense lawyer can increase your chances of receiving house arrest, primarily implemented into your larger legal strategy.
Typical Pennsylvania House Arrest Requirements
House arrest might seem like a desirable alternative to incarceration, but this method has its requirements. These requirements are often stringent, non-negotiable and ensure that those granted house arrest don’t abuse the privilege. Standard requirements for house arrest include:
- Random drug/alcohol tests
- Finding and maintaining gainful employment
- Attending school (if applicable)
- Regular meetings with a probation or parole officer
- Leaving only to attend those activities mandated or approved by the court
- Adhering to a strict curfew
Depending on the nature of the offense in question, there may be other requirements when house arrest is granted to ensure the court knows where the individual on house arrest is at all times.
Consult with a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer on Possibility of House Arrest
If your case may qualify for house arrest in Pennsylvania, call an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer. Our firm boasts wide-ranging expertise in house arrest cases, relying on proven legal strategies to garner a successful outcome in your case. We walk with you through each step of the case process so that you know you’ve got a criminal defense lawyer on whom you can rely.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford has worked in the Southern Pennsylvania legal community for more than 65 years. We have extensive relationships with individuals at all levels of the system, which works to your benefit. If you are seeking house arrest or want to know your options after being accused of an offense, call (215) 798-7081 or contact us here to schedule a free consultation.
