Who Is Eligible for a Court Ordered Ankle Monitor?
Understand the criteria judges and probation officers use when deciding if an individual qualifies for electronic monitoring instead of jail.
While home confinement and GPS monitoring offer incredible benefits, they are not granted automatically. The court must carefully weigh the risk to the community against the benefits of keeping the individual out of jail.
If you or a family member are hoping to secure a court-ordered ankle monitor, it is crucial to understand the eligibility criteria that judges and probation officers consider.
Primary Factors Considered by the Court
Every jurisdiction is different, but judges generally look at a standard set of factors when determining eligibility for electronic monitoring.
1. Nature of the Offense
Non-violent offenses (such as white-collar crimes, property crimes, or certain drug offenses) are much more likely to be approved for GPS monitoring. High-level violent crimes or offenses involving severe bodily harm often disqualify an individual from home confinement.
2. Prior Criminal History
First-time offenders have a much higher chance of being granted GPS monitoring. A long history of probation violations, failure to appear in court, or repeated offenses signals to the judge that the individual may not comply with the strict rules of house arrest.
3. Employment and Community Ties
Judges look favorably upon individuals who have a steady job, are enrolled in school, or have strong family ties in the area. These factors indicate stability and a lower flight risk, making them ideal candidates for community supervision.
The Role of the Bail Agent
For individuals awaiting trial, a bail agent can play a crucial role in securing release. If a judge sets a high bond due to perceived flight risk, a bail agent can offer to underwrite the bond on the condition that the defendant wears a GPS monitor.
By partnering with My GPS Monitor, the agent assures the court that the defendant will be tracked 24/7 with advanced technology like the ReliAlert™XC4, significantly reducing the flight risk.
Logistical Eligibility
Beyond legal eligibility, there are logistical requirements that must be met:
- Stable Residence: You must have a verified, stable place to live where the inclusion zone can be established.
- Power Supply: You must have reliable access to electricity to charge the device daily.
- Financial Ability: In many cases, the defendant is responsible for the daily or monthly monitoring fees. You must demonstrate the ability to pay these fees.
How to Improve Your Chances
Work closely with your defense attorney to present a comprehensive plan to the judge. This plan should highlight your employment, family support, and willingness to comply with all monitoring conditions. Demonstrating that you understand how the technology works and the seriousness of the commitment can go a long way.
Conclusion
Eligibility for a court-ordered ankle monitor is a nuanced decision based on risk assessment and stability. By presenting a strong case and utilizing highly reliable monitoring technology, many individuals can secure this invaluable alternative to incarceration.