Avoiding Conviction, Jail and a Criminal Record
A first-time offender for certain types of non-violent crimes may be eligible for an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) outcome. This enables the first-time offender to avoid a conviction, jail time and a permanent stain on his or her criminal record, subject to certain conditions.
At my practice, Theodore H. Swan, Jr., Attorney at Law, I routinely obtain ARD outcomes for people in cases involving DUI, theft crimes, and other non-violent misdemeanors.
If you have been arrested, contact me to arrange for a free consultation. I can review your case and discuss your legal options.
Obtaining an ARD Outcome with an Criminal Defense Lawyer
I have many years experience working with prosecutors and courts to obtain ARDs for my clients. If it looks to be obtainable in your case, I can initiate negotiations with the prosecutor to obtain it for you. This frequently involves a brief discussion of a person's good character, standing in the community and so on.
An ARD outcome usually lasts a year, and involves probation, supervision by a probation officer by phone and community service. Provided you stay out of trouble during probation, you will not receive a conviction. I can then file a petition to obtain an expungement for you.
For the first-time offender in a misdemeanor drug case, a similar alternative outcome similar to that of an ARD may be available. A Section 17 outcome can enable a first-time drug offender to avoid jail and a permanent conviction. I frequently obtain Section 17 outcomes for clients in cases involving drug possession and other drug misdemeanors.
ARD in Drunk Driving Cases
Pennsylvania is one of the few states that enables a first-time DUI offender to obtain a deferred verdict, probation and eventual expunction of the charge.
As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I have succeeded in obtaining ARD outcomes in numerous drunk driving cases. If you qualify and want this outcome, I will work to obtain it for you. Be aware that for the purposes of the PennDot records system, an ARD for drunk driving remains on your record for 10 years. If you are arrested for DUI again within that period, you will be prosecuted for a second offense and subject to more severe penalties.
The Difference Is Experience
I have worked in the area of criminal law in Montgomery County and Bucks County for over three decades. Contact me to put my experience to work for you.
