House Arrest in Wisconsin

Securing House Arrest in Wisconsin: A Guide

House arrest, also known as electronic monitoring, offers an alternative to traditional jail time for those sentenced to county jail in Wisconsin. Whether serving a mandatory sentence for an OWI offense, or any criminal charge, the decision to grant house arrest lies with the sheriff’s office, not the judge, as outlined in Wis. Stat § 302.425. Although a judge can sentence you to jail, they have no authority to direct house arrest specifically. Here’s how you might increase your chances of being placed on electronic monitoring and what to consider:

Understanding Restrictions

• Program Availability: Not all counties offer a home detention program, and those that do have specific criteria and restrictions that might exclude certain individuals based on the nature of their offense or previous jail conduct.
• Residency Requirements: You must reside in the county where you’re serving your jail sentence to qualify for house arrest in that county.
• Cost: Participants are typically required to cover the cost of electronic monitoring, which can range from $12 to $26 daily.

Qualifications for Electronic Monitoring

To be considered for electronic monitoring, the following conditions generally apply:

1. Jail Sentence: House arrest is an option only for jail sentences, not for prison terms.
2. Residency: You need to live in the county of your jail sentence or have the sentence transferred to your resident county, subject to judicial and jail administrative approval.
3. Financial Capability: Ability to pay for the electronic monitoring service.

Navigating Counties Without House Arrest Programs

If you’re sentenced in a county without an electronic monitoring program, transferring your sentence to a county with such a program may not be feasible. This often means serving your sentence in jail without the possibility of house arrest.

How DK Anderson, S.C. Can Help

Navigating the process and criteria for house arrest in Wisconsin can be complex. At DK Anderson, S.C., our experienced attorneys can guide you through this process, including exploring options for sentence transfer, advocating for your eligibility, and assisting with any necessary legal approvals. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your case and potentially secure a more flexible sentence arrangement like house arrest.