There are different types of tether devices.

Which device the court orders often depends on the type of offense the defendant has was convicted of in the case.

Electronic Monitoring Devices, Including Tether, In Lieu of Jail

Electronic monitoring devices – tether is used in cases that require more intensive monitoring. Tether devices allow for the close supervision of a defendant while in the community. Schedules can enable a person to work, attend school, counseling, and other court-related obligations. It is possible to designate restricted areas in cases where there is a victim. Progress and compliance reports are regularly sent to the court. In some cases, a savvy defense lawyer can persuade a judge to order monitoring on a tether instead of jail.

There are a lot of counties that have disbanded their Work Release Programs due to the costs involved. Instead, these counties have started using tethers as a “House Arrest” or “Work Release.” A tether allows a person to remain employed and stay at home rather than sit in jail.

The person on a tether has to pay for its use. It is expensive, and costs vary depending on the type of tether ordered by the court.

Types of Tethers That Can Be Used Instead of Jail

Global Positioning System (GPS) allows a defendant’s movements to be tracked by satellite and reported at regular intervals. The defendant’s movement is tracked in as close to real-time as possible. The court can program restricted areas into the system. Appropriate candidates for GPS are defendants charged with, or convicted of, domestic violence, criminal sexual conduct, or any crime with a victim. Requirements include having a stable address and power source. The defendant is given a curfew, among other things. A judge who is inclined to keep a defendant in jail to protect an alleged victim, usually in a felony or domestic violence case, might consider a GPS tether instead of jail. A tether is a good alternative in this situation because the tether company will notify the alleged victim if the defendant is near their home or place of employment.

Transdermal Alcohol Tether: This device monitors defendant’s blood alcohol content in real time. It also monitors body temperature and distance between the leg and the unit to detect possible tampering. The defendant must agree to follow all the rules and regulations of the Pretrial Supervision Tether Unit.

Breathalyzer Monitor: This system does not require an ankle bracelet. It randomly monitors and screens a person for alcohol while at home. They must submit to a breath test during scheduled times throughout the day. The unit has a camera to verify the defendant’s identity. Results are reported to the monitoring center.

Ignition Interlock: This device is installed in a car, and it prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol in a person’s system. A driver must blow into the device and pass the test for the vehicle to start.

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys – Helping Clients Avoid Jail by Using a Tether Instead

An excellent criminal defense attorney knows about sentencing alternatives and options. The attorney must know what is available to the client to help them with any issues they may have and eliminate, or at least minimize, any period of incarceration. There are numerous programs available for people with substance abuse or mental health problems (such as Sobriety Court and Drug Courts). There are programs available for first-time offenders (such as the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act and some prosecutor’s offices have First Offender Programs). Also, a lawyer can advocate for a tether instead of time in jail or prison. With the tether, the defendant is allowed to work and avoid incarceration.

The attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. pride themselves in giving their clients top-notch legal representation. It is vital to its attorneys that the firm protects our client’s due process and constitutional rights are protected. The firm’s attorneys are award-winning, highly experienced, and extremely professional. Each has earned the respect of the legal community. If you are facing criminal charges, you want someone who knows and understands the law and is also familiar with all options that might be available to you at sentencing.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.