| Sentencing Alternatives: | | | | between the prosecutor and the defense. |
| What kind of sentencing alternatives are available in | | | | Sentencing alternatives have the unique quality of |
| DUI cases? | | | | being rehabilitative in nature as opposed to the punitive |
| The penalties for conviction of a DUI are harsh and | | | | sentences of large fines and incarceration. There are |
| include large fines, jail time, and mandatory alcohol | | | | little, if any, avenues for rehabilitation in sitting at the |
| education classes. Conviction for multiple DUIs only | | | | county jail. In addition, DUI offenders who are |
| increases the amount of punishment. Because of the | | | | incarcerated may lose their jobs, thus making their |
| harsh nature of DUI sentencing laws, courts have | | | | situation even worse. In addition, if the DUI offender is |
| developed alternative sentencing options. Sentencing | | | | truly an alcoholic, it is far more beneficial to seek |
| alternatives increase the options available for | | | | treatment, thus minimizing the likelihood of yet another |
| punishment, allowing for greater plea bargaining choices | | | | DUI conviction. |