Can I Still Work While Under House Arrest?
House arrest is not commonly given as a sentence, but there are instances where the courts allow house arrest versus time in jail. Typically, you are required to stay at home, and you are under close surveillance – with the use of an ankle monitor.
Home imprisonment is restricted to non-violent and minor offenses only. When local jails or prisons are overcrowded, you might find that house arrest becomes an easier punishment to endure. If you are under house arrest, you could still be allowed to work. That is one of the advantages of being on house arrest: you keep your employment.
If you have a regular job with predictable hours, the judge might permit you to work for specific hours each day as part of your arrest. However, this is a privilege that should not be abused. Many offenders on house arrest have taken advantage of the slight freedom to leave and go to work – only to miss curfew or wander away from work and find themselves back in jail.
Typical Rules When Working While on House Arrest
Every court is different, depending on the defendant and the offense. You will find, however, that you are under close monitoring regardless of your crime. To work on a job while still under house arrest, you must follow some general requirements:
- Submit a job schedule. First, the court will request that you submit a work schedule to your overseeing officer and the court. This schedule must also explain what time you leave for work, approximately how long it takes to get there, and how many hours you are there. Then, you must detail what time you leave, approximate travel times back home, and the time you anticipate you will be home.
- Job sites could be limited. If your job requires that you visit certain areas of the city that are off limits, you may have to request a temporary transfer. For example, if you are under house arrest for a drug crime, and your work is in a high drug use area, the judge may prohibit you from going to work at that site.
- Electronic monitoring devices. You will have a device attached to your ankle, which is small enough to hide under your clothing. The devices will send signals about where you are throughout the day. If you were to leave the determined path or you are in a place you are not authorized past a particular time, the device will notify your officer and you will find yourself under arrest.
- You pay the costs of the home monitoring. While you can still work, realize that you will encounter all costs associated with house arrest. That includes the device, maintaining that device, and the electronic monitoring fees. Any court fees associated with it are also paid for by you.
Curious if House Arrest is an Option? Speak with an Attorney First
Not all cases qualify for house arrest. In fact, the courts will only give select categories of convicted criminals a chance to work. Therefore, if you have a job or need to support your family, and you would like to learn more about your options for punishment, contact an attorney.
The team at New Mexico Criminal Law Offices is here to help you with your criminal case and get the best possible outcome. Call us at 505-375-4765 to schedule your free case evaluation or contact us online with your questions.