Within Traffic Law Easton PA, there is an alternative judgment that is referred to as accelerated rehabilitative disposition. It is considered a pretrial sentencing option for individuals who receive their first DUI charge. If you are arrested and charged with DUI, you should contact your preferred lawyer to establish whether accelerated rehabilitative disposition is an option for you.
What is Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition?
Accelerated rehabilitative disposition is an alternative for first-time DUI offenders. This alternative places you into an intervention program where you may receive help for alcohol or drug dependency. It prevents a conviction and a criminal record. However, if you receive another DUI charge within a ten-year period, the rehabilitation program will count as a previous charge or conviction.
This is a six or twelve-month program in which you are responsible for completing at least ten hours of community service. You are eligible for the six-month program if you have completed all requirements prior to your first court date. These requirements include your assigned community service, fines or court fees, evaluation and treatment as assigned, and any other assigned conditions. If alcohol was the reason for the DUI charge, you are also required to attend alcohol highway safety school
Are You Eligible for A.R.D.?
For your lawyer to prove your eligibility for the accelerated rehabilitative disposition program, you must be a first-time offender. You cannot possess any previous charges, even if they are not related to the DUI charge. This includes convictions in states other than Pennsylvania and any charges you may have received through the U.S. military.
How to Apply for A.R.D.?
A lawyer who practices within Traffic Law in Easton PA area may waive the preliminary court hearing after you are charged. He or she will submit an application for accelerated rehabilitative disposition to the district court along with your information form. Your lawyer will inform you of the judge’s decision. If you are rejected, your lawyer may submit a reconsideration request. This request must reach the district court before your scheduled court date. If the second request is denied you are subject to the sentencing requirements for DUI charges.
