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If you find yourself facing criminal charges, your first crucial step is selecting an attorney. Once you have secured legal representation, the next inquiry revolves around the possibility of entering the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program.
The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program (ARD) is a program tailored for first-time offenders involved in non-violent offenses. The allure of ARD lies in its potential outcome: successful completion results in a complete dismissal of the charges—a legal equivalent to a not-guilty verdict from a jury trial. As anyone familiar with the challenges of a criminal case can attest, achieving such a dismissal is no easy feat, though it is certainly attainable.
The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program
Qualifying for the ARD Program involves meeting specific criteria, such as being a first-time DUI offender with no prior DUI convictions or accidents associated with the DUI. Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney Bernie Tully actively engages with police and prosecutors from the Preliminary Hearing onward to advocate for your case’s consideration in this program. The objective is to guide you through the legal system with minimal intrusion into your life.
However, it is important to note that acceptance into the ARD Program does not happen at the Preliminary Hearing. By law, your case must progress to the next level, held for court, before becoming eligible for consideration. Typically, you will receive information about your eligibility shortly after the Preliminary Hearing or, at the latest, during the Formal Arraignment.
The Formal Arraignment is the next step if you are deemed eligible for the ARD Program. At this stage, you will be assigned to meet with the District Attorney’s office for an interview to determine your eligibility. This involves providing background information, including contacts, workplace details, and more. It is crucial to remember that cooperation and transparency during this process are vital for acceptance into the program.
The procedural steps leading to acceptance into the ARD Program are intentional. The courts aim to underscore the gravity of the charges against you and emphasize that you are receiving a legal break. Going through these steps signifies your commitment to acknowledging the seriousness of the situation.
With over 40 years of experience, Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney Bernie Tully has encountered situations similar to yours. While each case is unique, there is no guarantee of a favorable result. However, if your case qualifies for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program, remember that it leads to a complete dismissal of charges—a significant outcome. Contact us for a free consultation regarding your criminal charges. Even if the ARD Program is not an option, there are alternative programs to explore.
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