Q: can I pay I fine instead of community service hours? Have been extended 3 times I don’t have them done work schedule
I have been extended 3 times to complete community service hours. The last extension was a 1 month extension on my final court date which is tomorrow. I have only completed 13.5 hours in the last month leaving me with 34 hours left I had 60 hours to start. Can I pay a fine instead of doing the rest? This has been going on for 9 months. My work schedule prohibits me from getting to community service on time which is 7am and they require minimum of 4 hours in a shift. Work starts for me 9am latest 10am
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A:
Under California law, it is generally up to the discretion of the court to allow you to pay a fine instead of completing community service hours. However, this option is not always available and depends on the specific circumstances of your case and the court's policies.
Given that you have already been granted extensions multiple times and still have a significant number of hours remaining, the court may be less inclined to offer a fine as an alternative. It is crucial to attend your court date and explain your situation to the judge, including your work schedule constraints and the efforts you have made to complete the community service hours.
Be prepared for the possibility that the judge may not allow you to pay a fine instead of completing the remaining hours. They may offer another extension, require you to complete the hours within a specific timeframe, or impose additional penalties for non-compliance.
It is advisable to consult with a criminal defense attorney who can assess your case, provide guidance on your options, and represent you in court if necessary. They may be able to negotiate with the court on your behalf or help you find alternative ways to complete your community service hours that better accommodate your work schedule.
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