My father was arrested about 2 weeks ago for drug-related issues and his court date is set for January 8th, 2009. My family cannot afford a lawyer, but some friends told me about some ranch that's around here that serves as an alternative to jail. I called and ended up right back where I started. This is a first offense, he's never had trouble with the law before, but since he's Hispanic and we're in Central Arkansas, the odds of him getting a fair chance are slim. How can I be more involved and maybe talk to the judge or someone that can help? I need to find other alternatives to jail. but I don't even know where to start. Help!
2007-11-26 08:57:45 · 12 answers · asked by joey5 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Even if you find the information you are looking for, that would be no good unless the prosecuting attorney and the judge agree to it also. If those programs are available, they will know about them.
Call the public defenders office and see if you qualify for a free, or reduced price, attorney.
2007-11-26 09:03:00 · answer #1 · answered by trooper3316 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
[Don't you mean 2008 and NOT 2009/]
Actually, the fact that you are Hispanic may help, but not in the way you think.
Judges are always impressed if a defendant shows up with a lot of family in the gallery.
I would round up all the family (this is a b-i-i-i-g word in the Hispanic community because it encompasses a lot of people) I could find, as well as the local minister/priest. Be at every hearing. If you Father is charged with a felony, he has a right to a Public Defender if he qualifies, and he should try and get one. That way the PD can point out to the judge that all these people are in the Court not only to support your Dad, but also to make sure he doesn't do it again.
If this is truly a first offense, then he can probably expect some sort of probated sentence.
** Note: This is a general discussion of the subject matter of your question and not legal advice. Local laws or your particular situation may change the general rules. For a specific answer to your question you should consult legal counsel with whom you can discuss all the facts of your case. **
2007-11-26 17:07:30 · answer #2 · answered by scottclear 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
First offense for drug related charges. Hmm, well if it's marijuana and the circumstances are simple possession (without intent to sell) I think you can rule out jail time. Intent to sell will probably carry jail time, as well as any additional drugs beyond marijuana. This assumes it's misdemeanor possession, and not a felony. He will get a PD if you don't have a lawyer, you need to consult with them what your options are. I don't think you need a lawyer because the circumstances in the matter are somewhat clear if he's not disputing the charges.
2007-11-26 17:20:22 · answer #3 · answered by Pfo 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The court date is 13 months off - wow!
Is he guilty? That fact would be the first thing I would want to know. And of what? A small amount of pot is way different that 5 pounds of coke!
Alternatives to jail could be community service, home detention, probation, or death by lethal injection
2007-11-26 17:21:02 · answer #4 · answered by roadrunner426440 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Perhaps he could enter a plea of guilty, and at the same time suggest a stiff alternative-to-jail sentence to the judge.. IE doing something to benefit the community, and a self-financed rehabilitation program.
2007-11-26 17:05:41 · answer #5 · answered by gcbtrading 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
if you can not afford an attorney one will be provided for you. i am assuming your father is here legally. if he is not legal you can discuss plea arrangement with district attorney and then he should be deported. i only mention this because you made the point he is Hispanic i hope he is legally here and he will serve an appropriate sentence and get on with a productive life.
2007-11-26 17:05:04 · answer #6 · answered by michr 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
You could call Paris Hilton! JK> He will have to go to jail honey, when your sentenced you have no way around it other than run... then your a fugitive! Good luck to you and your family.
2007-11-26 17:02:26 · answer #7 · answered by Nikki 6 · 2⤊ 2⤋
You didn't state what the charges are.
First offence he'll probebly just get probation and a fine.
2007-11-26 17:06:22 · answer #8 · answered by Just me again ☺ 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Don't do the crime, that's a good alternative to jail.
2007-11-26 17:30:38 · answer #9 · answered by firewomen 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I'm sincere when I tell you I'm sorry to here about your father but WHY do you think he should receive an alternative form of punishment?
2007-11-26 17:03:32 · answer #10 · answered by infidel-louie 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋