ARD stands for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition. This program gives people charged with certain first-time, non-violent crimes, such as DUI, a chance to avoid a trial and jail time. Instead, you follow a supervised program. If you finish the program, the court dismisses the charge. ARD can help you keep your record clean and move on with your life. It works best for people who do not have a long criminal or driving history and who want to take steps to correct a mistake.
Eligibility Criteria for the ARD Program in Lancaster County
Not everyone can take advantage of the ARD program. If you already had a DUI or participated in ARD within the last ten years, you won’t qualify. You also can’t apply if someone got seriously hurt in a crash related to your case or if you had a child under 14 in your car. If you were DUI without a license or insurance, that could disqualify you, too. The District Attorney reviews every case and decides who can apply. Some borderline cases go before an ARD panel for eligibility decisions.
How the ARD Process Works
You must waive your preliminary hearing and submit an application with a copy of the criminal complaint to apply for ARD. You also need to sign a continuance form and schedule a CRN evaluation. You have 30 days from when the complaint is filed to do all this. You must turn in everything before your first status conference. If the District Attorney accepts your application, they’ll schedule a court hearing.
What Happens After You’re Accepted into the Program?
If the court accepts you into ARD, you will enter a 12-month supervision period. During that time, you must finish any court-ordered treatment, take an alcohol safety class, and complete community service. You also need to pay all applicable fees, fines, and other costs. You must complete most of your program requirements within five months. If you follow the rules and complete all requirements, you can move to clear your record. If you don’t, the court could remove you from the program and start prosecution.
Successful Completion and Expungement of Charges
If you finish the ARD program, the court will dismiss the charges against you, and no conviction will appear on your record. You can then ask the court to expunge the arrest from your record. If the District Attorney doesn’t object, the judge will approve the request. This gives you a chance to move forward without the long-term effects of a DUI or other first offense.
How Legal Guidance Can Make a Difference
Applying for ARD without a lawyer can put you at a disadvantage. A defense attorney can explain the charges you face and the potential consequences of your choices. They can also complete paperwork, meet deadlines, and communicate with the District Attorney on your behalf. If any complications arise in your case, your attorney can advocate for your acceptance into the program.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney in Lancaster
If you have been charged with a first-time DUI or other offense in Lancaster County, the ARD program could give you a second chance. The criminal defense lawyers at Chieppor & Egner LLC can review your case and help you explore your options. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to get honest and straightforward answers to your questions.
