Reality-TV stars Teresa and Joe Giudice have yet to be sentenced for the 39 counts of fraud they were charged with last month, but according to a source, they’re already looking for a way to evade jail time.

In a report released by Radar Online Tuesday, a source reveals that although a plea deal has yet to be discussed between the United States Attorney’s Office and the Giudices' lawyers, the “Real Housewives of New Jersey” couple aims to avoid Teresa doing time. Allegedly, the 41-year-old mother of four is planning to request house arrest, following reports that her husband, Joe, 43, could face up to 50 years behind bars even if they agree to a plea deal.

“Prosecutors are insisting that both of them do time behind bars,” a source said, revealing that Joe is willing to endure prison time to secure his wife’s safety. “Joe is more than willing to take the fall for Teresa so that she stays out of jail. Teresa is hopeful that she could do house arrest instead of jail time.”

With the couple's high profile, the government is reportedly looking to use them as an example for future fraud cases. “The government has a very, very strong case against the Giudices,” said the source. “The Giudices will also be facing serious, significant financial penalties.”

The New Jersey couple began their 39-count indictment trial -- on charges including bank and bankruptcy fraud, making false statements on loan applications, and conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud -- late last month at the United States District Court in Newark, N.J. Both were released on unsecured $500,000 bonds and are due back in court on Aug. 14.

"The Real Housewives of New Jersey" airs Sundays on Bravo at 8 p.m. ET.

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