If you are facing your first DUI conviction in Lancaster County a solution may be participating in the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program. First you should know, this is a one-time pre-trial intervention program. Second this program is for non-violent offenders with no prior record of DUI convictions. Third, participating in this program will increase the likelihood of avoiding more serious expenses and penalties. Finally, the charges may be dismissed and expunged from your criminal record.
In addition, the stipulations for being accepted into Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) may include:
A Court Reporting Network assessment of alcohol use and lifestyle
Completing Alcohol Safety School
A probationary period of 12 months
Community service
Payment of restitution
Fines and associated court costs
A driver’s license suspension of zero to three months
Also, if you have had a previous DUI conviction or participated in Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) or another similar program, you may not be eligible for ARD. However, you can find more information about second DUI charges by calling our office at 717-393-1400.
In addition, please be aware that not every first time driving under the influence offender will gain acceptance into the ARD program.
Next, if you will be participating in ARD, you must complete the following:
1. Waive the preliminary hearing
2. Fill out and submit an ARD application to the District Attorney’s Office with a copy of your complaint and affidavit
3. Sign a continuance form
4. Make an appointment for a Court Reporting Network assessment.
Finally, we are ready to assist you through this process. Please contact us to discuss your options.
-Attorneys Mark Walmer and Alex Egner