Were you recently arrested and charged with a criminal offense? Are you hoping to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed altogether and avoid the harsh consequences of a trial? If so, a pretrial diversion program may be a good option for you.
However, you may or may not qualify based on the circumstances of your case. A Leesburg pretrial diversion lawyer at Bogin, Munns & Munns could help you enter one of these programs and put the arrest and your charges behind you.
Ways a Lake County Pretrial Diversion Lawyer Helps
Pretrial diversion programs in the state of Florida are separated by counties. The Lake County Pretrial Diversion Program (PTD) may be an ideal option if you meet the eligibility requirements.
However, before entering a PTD program, your criminal defense lawyer at our firm must negotiate with the state’s prosecuting attorney on your behalf. If the prosecutor agrees to allow you to enter a pretrial diversion program, you must adhere to the terms of the program to get the charges against you dismissed.
Getting the state’s prosecuting attorney to allow you to enter a pretrial diversion program could be more of a challenge than you thought. If you hope to avoid the devastating fallout of a criminal conviction, it may be pertinent to retain a legal advocate from Bogin, Munns & Munns, who can help you work out an agreement with the state.
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(855) 780-9986
What Is Leesburg Pretrial Diversion?
Pretrial diversion programs are an opportunity for you to get a second chance and put your arrest behind you. You must adhere to specific terms, and once you complete the terms of the program, the charges against you can be dropped.
The conditions of your PTD program can vary based on the specific criminal charges you face. However, some requirements you may be required to meet include:
- Paying the court a fee
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
- Mental health counseling
- Anger management
- Regular meetings with a probation officer
- Random drug or alcohol testing
- Abstaining from drugs or alcohol
- Attendance at group therapy
- Completion of a drug or alcohol treatment program
- Completion of a driver retraining program
Benefits of Pretrial Diversion Programs in Leesburg
The benefits of entering a Leesburg pretrial diversion program are undeniable. Although there is no way to change your arrest and the charges you faced, by completing the terms of your program, you can effectively clear your record.
Benefits of pretrial diversion programs in Leesburg include:
- Avoiding the harsh penalties of a guilty verdict
- Reducing your stress levels after your arrest
- Reducing the costs of defending yourself at trial
- A chance to get the help you need
- The opportunity to clear your arrest record and expunge the charges against you
Leesburg Pretrial Diversion Lawyer Near Me
(855) 780-9986
Who Is Eligible for Pretrial Diversion?
Although PTD programs are often a great option for most alleged offenders, according to Florida Statutes § 948.08, only individuals who are non-violent, first-time offenders facing third-degree felony or misdemeanor charges are eligible for pretrial diversion programs. For example, if you are facing charges of first-time possessions of a controlled substance, you could be eligible for this program. Other eligible crimes include certain theft charges, including grand and petit theft.
This is contingent upon the approval of the state’s prosecuting attorney, the PTD program administrator, any alleged victims in your case, and the judge presiding over your case. If you are unsure whether you qualify for pretrial diversion in Lake County, do not hesitate to contact our firm to find out.
What Happens If You do Not Comply with Your Pretrial Diversion Agreement?
Failure to adhere to the terms of your pretrial diversion program will have dire consequences. You will almost certainly be removed from the PTD program in question.
From there, the state’s prosecuting attorney has the authority to move forward with the original charges you were facing. If you are convicted, you could be facing severe criminal penalties associated with the conviction.
Criminal Penalties and Collateral Consequences
The criminal consequences of the charges you face vary widely depending on the crime you were accused of committing. In many cases, penalties can include incarceration in a county jail or state prison, fines, probation, community service, registration as a sex offender, or other harsh penalties.
However, it is not only the criminal consequences of a conviction you should be worried about. The collateral fallout of a guilty verdict could impact your life for years to come.
Examples of collateral consequences if you violate the terms of your pretrial diversion program in Leesburg include:
- Issues with citizenship or immigration, including deportation
- Inability to retain a job, demotion, termination, or difficulty finding work
- Housing restrictions and trouble finding affordable and safe housing
- Loss of child custody or visitation rights
- Temporary loss of voting rights
- Loss of gun rights
These are only a few ways your life will be affected if you are found guilty of a criminal offense. Typically, if you qualify for a PTD program, entering one is in your best interests. You can explore your defensive options further when you speak with a Leesburg pretrial diversion lawyer from our firm.
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Connect with Our Leesburg Pretrial Diversion Lawyer for Help Today
Pretrial diversion programs may not be available for every arrested person. However, if you qualify, pretrial diversion could be an excellent opportunity to get your life back on track, avoid the fallout of the conviction, and put this experience behind you.
Find out whether you are eligible and how to enter a pretrial diversion program when you contact Bogin, Munns & Munns for help. Call for your confidential case evaluation or complete our secured contact form. A team member is standing by to discuss your options and the best course of action.
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