Court-appointed community service is assigned volunteer work that is done to help improve a community. It can also be an opportunity to demonstrate responsibility, the ability to do challenging work, and gain valuable experience. The purpose of community service is that it allows defendants a chance to make amends. Community service may be ordered on a case-by-case basis. It can be an alternative to jail time and can also serve as a replacement for fines.
Volunteer work has to take place at a non-profit organization. Service for a family member or friend will not be accepted as community service. The judge will give a deadline for when the community service needs to be completed. It is up to the individual to arrange when and where they will volunteer. Dress appropriately for the type of work that will be done. Some locations will require close-toed shoes or clothing that can get dirty.
Sometimes, a judge will ask a client to complete a specific type of work. Other times, it is the choice of the individual. The link included here is from the United Way and features organizations across Utah County that accept community service volunteers. A great non-profit included on the United Way’s website is the Community Action Regional Food Bank in Provo. By volunteering with them, individuals can help members of their community receive needed meals.
Click here for a form to track service hours. A signature from a supervisor at the organization will be needed to certify the hours worked. The completed form will be brought to court.
For any further questions, reach out to your attorney.