Probation violation for community service in California

[caltrans_service]

I was arrested for DUI 14 months ago in Van Nuys, California. I was sentenced to 13 days in jail or to pay a fine instead which I did. I also was sentenced to to the AB541 treatment program, Victim Impact Panel, 6 AA meetings, and 10 days Caltrans community service, and 3 years summary probation. I have completed everything except for the communtiy service.

At this point I have asked for and received 3 exensions for my community service. The judge also added 5 days for a total of 15 as one of the terms of the extension. At this point I will have been able to only complete 12 of the 15 days by my court date this coming week. When the judge granted me my last extension he said there would be no more extensions (this was not the original sentencing judge that I will be seeing this week).

Is there any type of standard or precedent that I can expect in this situation? If I am sentenced to jail for not completing the final 3 days is there any type of way to calculate how much time i can expect to have to serve? If I am sentenced to jail is it standard to be able to pay a fine instead of doing the actual time like I was able to do originally?

Also would hiring a lawyer to represent me benefit me at all? I am more than willing to spend the money on a lawyer but didn't know if there would be any benefit to it.

Thank you for any and all replies. The feeling of not knowing what to expect is the worst part of all.

[seniorjudge]

Q: Is there any type of standard or precedent that I can expect in this situation?

A: No. Each case is unique.


Q: If I am sentenced to jail for not completing the final 3 days is there any type of way to calculate how much time i can expect to have to serve?

A: You will probably serve the balance of your sentence; or maybe just part of it.


Q: If I am sentenced to jail is it standard to be able to pay a fine instead of doing the actual time like I was able to do originally?

A: No.


Q: Also would hiring a lawyer to represent me benefit me at all?

A: I doubt it, but if it makes you feel better, go ahead and hire one.