You may be eligible for Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program if you have no prior criminal convictions. This program could significantly reduce the legal penalties you face, and a Reading ARD program lawyer from our firm can explore your eligibility.
McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. seeks the best available outcomes for our clients. Enrollment in an ARD program could be the best available outcome in your case. Let us fight to enroll you in an ARD program, or secure another positive resolution to your case.
What Is The ARD Program In Reading, And Are You Eligible?
The Pennsylvania Office of Victim Services explains that an ARD program allows alleged offenders to “make a fresh start after participating in a rehabilitative program and offers them the possibility of dismissal of charges and the expungement of the offender’s arrest record upon completion of the program.”
The ARD program is recognized as a pre-trial intervention program, or a diversionary program, meant to spare non-chronic offenders from the weight of a criminal conviction. Once you complete the conditions of an ARD program, your life may resume as if your arrest never occurred.
You may be eligible for an ARD program if you have no prior criminal convictions. However, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) notes that:
- A prosecutor must recommend you for an ARD program.
- You must agree to comply with the proposed conditions of the ARD program.
- In certain cases, the court may need to notify certain victims of your enrollment in an ARD program.
Though defendants charged with nonviolent offenses are most often placed in ARD programs, selection for these programs vary from case to case. A criminal defense attorney from McKenzie Law, P.C. will work to enroll you in an ARD program in Reading.
What Kinds Of Crimes Can Qualify A Defendant For An ARD Program In Reading?
There is no specific list of offenses that qualify a defendant for enrollment in an ARD program. However, nonviolent, first-time offenses are most suited to an ARD program. Those accused of these offenses may have truly made a mistake and may have a likelihood of not re-offending in the future.
Some offenses for which you may enroll in an ARD program include:
- Theft crimes
- Drug offenses
- Driving under the influence (DUI) and other traffic offenses
- White-collar offenses
- Harassment, stalking, or other nonviolent offenses
If you’re facing criminal charges in Reading, we’ll determine your eligibility for an ARD program.
What Are The Consequences If I Don’t Enroll In An ARD Program?
In certain cases, enrolling in an ARD program is the most favorable outcome for a client. In such cases, the alternative to enrolling in an ARD program may be a possible conviction. If you represent yourself and fail to enroll in an ARD program, consequences may include:
- A misdemeanor or felony conviction going on your record (for the public to see)
- Significant fines
- Jail or prison time
- Other legal conditions, such as probation or loss of your driving privileges
When you’re formally convicted in Reading, the legal consequences are only the start of your troubles. You may also face professional harm, lose earning power, lose parental rights, and suffer other fallout that makes your life harder. Enrolling in an ARD program may help you to avoid all of these consequences.
The legal and non-legal consequences you’re facing depend on the offense the state has charged you with. A Reading ARD program lawyer from our firm will review those charges. We’ll inform you of whether you’re ARD-eligible and explain our plan for enrolling you (or defending you in other ways).
For a free legal consultation with an ard programs lawyer serving Reading, call (610) 680-7842
Hire McKenzie Law, P.C. To Help You Enroll In An ARD Program In Reading
Those facing crimes of any kind in Reading may hire an attorney. By having a criminal defense lawyer lead your case, you may:
- Know that you’re doing everything in your power to protect yourself from a criminal conviction
- Have the benefit of a lawyer’s legal knowledge and experience, which may be invaluable during criminal proceedings
- Have the financial support of your law firm
- Be able to focus on your well-being, rather than the details of your case
You should consider McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. to lead your defense in Reading. Attorney David McKenzie is a former prosecutor. He understands how the legal system works from both sides of the courtroom. Importantly, he also understands the criteria by which prosecutors select enrollees for ARD programs.
Our team is standing by to review your case. We want to help you move past your pending criminal charges, whether that’s through an ARD program or other means.
Benefits That Clients Of McKenzie Law, P.C. Receive
When you choose McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. to lead your defense, you will:
- Have constant access to attorney McKenzie and his team through emails, text messaging, phone calls, and social media
- Be completely safe from those who may violate your rights—law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, or others
- Be a key player in your defense, helping us make the most important decisions about your case
- Know that our team is fighting for both your present and future, representing you with passion and without an ounce of judgment
From our first meeting, through our independent investigation and negotiations with the prosecutor in your case, McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. will be fighting for you.
Client Testimonials For McKenzie Law, P.C.
Our client testimonials may provide a clearer picture of McKenzie Law, P.C.’s unique brand of legal representation:
“100% recommend, David makes the process as painless as possible. He makes himself available at all times and puts you at ease.” – Alyssa Davies, former client
“McKenzie Law Firm was available for all our questions. Reassured us during our hearing. Was a true advocate for us. Would recommend him to everyone.” – Dana Clemons, former client
“McKenzie is well versed in how the system works and what to expect. He was responsive and always available for questions and concerns.” – Len Subick, former client
Criminal cases in Reading are simply too serious for you to trust an unproven lawyer or handle yourself. Let our team seek the best possible outcome for you or your loved one.
Reading ARD Programs Lawyer Near Me (610) 680-7842
Call McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. Today To Discuss Your Case In Reading
A Reading ARD program lawyer from our firm will begin work on your case today. Call McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. today, at no cost or obligation, to discuss how we can assist you.
Whether we enroll you in an ARD program or pursue another legal strategy, your well-being will be our primary concern.
Call or text (610) 680-7842 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
