If you face criminal charges in Osceola County, FL, you could qualify for pretrial diversion (PTD) as an alternative to being prosecuted in the criminal system. Depending on the charges and prior history, diversion programs are designed to give people with a clean (or relatively clean) record a second chance to take back control of their lives and future. After all, everyone can make mistakes.
There are strict qualifying guidelines for PTD programs, which vary significantly from county to county. Often, an experienced criminal defense attorney can be the difference in being accepted into these programs. Our Kissimmee pretrial diversion lawyers understand the ins and outs of the laws applying to local PTD programs in depth. So if your case is held in Osceola County, our Kissimmee criminal defense lawyers are here to help.
We Work Hard to Protect You from the Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
A criminal record can profoundly affect your personal life and career opportunities. Aside from the immediate stress and penalties of expensive fines or a jail sentence, there are equally as damaging longer-term considerations:
- You could face the loss of your driving privileges
- Housing, loans, mortgage, or rental applications can be denied
- Access to student loans for education or acceptance into a college may be affected
- A criminal conviction could make it more challenging to get a job
- Applications or renewals of professional licenses could be denied
- Your rights in family court proceedings may be affected
- You may be ineligible to vote
- Your right to bear arms could be affected
Our pretrial diversion attorneys help people to get the help they need after making a mistake and avoid the damaging and limiting effects a criminal record can have.
What Offenses Are Eligible for Pretrial Diversion in Osceola County, FL?
For first-time offenders, most third-degree felonies and misdemeanors are eligible for pretrial diversion along with some specific second-degree felonies under Florida Statutes § 948.08. However, cases involving charges related to the use of weapons or extreme violence against another person do not qualify for PTD. The same goes for most cases involving sexual allegations. Common examples of qualifying offenses can include:
- Theft, including grand theft and petit theft
- First-time possession of controlled substances
- Prostitution
- Domestic violence (except if a weapon is involved)
- Battery
- DUI
How Do I Know if I Am Eligible for a Pretrial Diversion Program?
We can help you determine whether you qualify for a PTD program. With over 40 years of experience in helping people and protecting their rights, we understand the local laws and requirements that will apply to your situation. For example, did you know you could still qualify even with a prior misdemeanor conviction?
So, if your offense is not listed above, or you are unsure whether your case will qualify, we can give you the answers you need while ensuring your rights are protected. In addition, our lawyers will review police reports or other information related to your case (such as statements, BAC tests, or other documents) to evaluate your legal position and eligibility for PTD programs.
To consult with an experienced pretrial diversion lawyer serving Kissimmee
(855) 780-9986
How Do PTD Programs Work and What Are The Benefits?
Our attorneys know the different types of diversion programs available in Kissimmee and what is required to qualify, so we can help with acceptance into a program. However, you will be expected to comply with specific conditions once accepted. For example, you may be required to:
- Pay fees for educational classes
- Report to your supervising officer regularly
- Participate in random drug testing
- Make amends with the victims affected by your actions
- Engage in community service projects
- Attend drug or alcohol counseling
- Maintain stable employment
- Follow the law
- Attend anger management classes
- Fulfill any other requirements related to your case
Let’s use a first-time DUI arrest as an example of the benefits of a PTD program. Under the DUI program, there would likely be a requirement to attend DUI educational classes, community service, random drug testing, and possibly drug or alcohol counseling. There would also be court costs and program fees to pay.
PTD Programs Provide Short and Long-Term Benefits
These programs aim to get people the help they need to make positive life changes. Returning to the DUI arrest example, the following benefits could apply:
- It may be possible to obtain a hardship license which means that while your driving license will be suspended for a while, you would still be able to drive back and from work.
- After successfully completing a PTD program, the state attorney will file a formal dismissal of the charges against you. This means there will be no conviction on your record.
- Having your arrest record expunged or removed from your file may also be possible.
- You could avoid the penalties of paying high-risk auto insurance.
- You could avoid the consequences of a DUI conviction on employment opportunities.
However, failing the program (by not complying with the program requirements) would result in you being charged and sentenced through the criminal court system. So it is always in your best interest to follow what is required. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Our Kissimmee Pretrial Diversion Attorneys Can Help You Today
At Bogin, Munns & Munns, protecting your future is important to us. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Kissimmee, FL, the attorneys at Bogin, Munns & Munns can review the facts of your case to determine what needs to be done for your situation.
For over 40 years, we have dedicated ourselves to protecting the rights of our clients and their families during stressful and difficult times. If you have any questions regarding pretrial diversion, please contact us to learn more about how we can help.
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