If a judge determines working more than 16 hours a week won't be a hardship, what can the court do?

When a judge assesses that working more than 16 hours a week will not pose a hardship for the defendant, the court has the ability to mandate an increase in the amount of community service hours required. This stems from the rationale that if the defendant is capable of managing more than the 16 hours without suffering undue difficulty, they can contribute more significantly to their community service obligations.

This approach supports the idea that community service is meant to be a restorative and rehabilitative measure, allowing individuals to give back to the community, while also addressing the responsibilities they carry. In this scenario, the expectation is not only that the defendant fulfills their obligations but that they can do so in a manner that extends beyond the minimum expectations established. Thus, the judge can order the defendant to work additional hours, reflecting the court's assessment of the individual’s capacity and circumstances.