There are a surprisingly vast amount of options for resolving Mississippi criminal defense cases without incarceration. The key is that you must choose an experienced attorney who is well-versed in these options and knows when they apply. At the Law Office of George B. Ready in Hernando, we understand the various alternatives to incarceration. We know when and how to use them to your benefit. Prior to becoming a lawyer in private practice, our founder, George B. Ready, served as a circuit court judge for a decade. Needless to say, he knows the criminal justice system.

Helping You Understand Your Options

If you have been charged with a crime in Mississippi, the options available will depend on a number of factors such as the severity of the crime, the number of previous offenses and your background. Some of the alternatives to incarceration that may apply include:

• Pretrial diversion: This option is available to first-time offenders facing minor charges such as possession of drugs. The case is more or less put on hold. If the accused completes certain requirements, the case will be closed, and no penalties issued.
• Non-adjudicated probation: Also referred to as deferred adjudication, this option allows the accused to enter a guilty plea. The court will hold the guilty plea, and the accused will be allowed to complete probation. When successfully completed, the case will be closed.
• Suspended or split sentence: When a felony leads to a conviction, the court may hold sentencing and instead allow the individual to complete probation. Failure to follow the terms will lead to the imposition of the sentence.
• Drug court: The state recognizes that many drug-related crimes are driven by addiction and that those accused need help. Drug court provides an opportunity for these people to receive treatment instead of incarceration.
• Regimented Inmate Discipline (RID) program: This option is available for some youthful offenders. It uses military style discipline as the offender is provided educational opportunities and treatment opportunities instead of punishments.
• House arrest: Also referred to as Intensive Supervision Program (ISP), this option is available to nonviolent offenders deemed low risk. It involves electronic monitoring in a home environment and allows the offender to go to work, school and select other places.

Here To Serve You

Contact us to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how you may be able to avoid incarceration for a criminal charge. We help people fight incarceration in northern Mississippi and western Tennessee. Call us at 662-429-7088.