ARD & TREATMENT COURTS ATTORNEY IN WEST CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA
Guidance On Alternative Sentencing And Expungements
Criminal charges can have a major impact on your life regardless of the context, but some special circumstances can make you eligible for special sentencing programs and court systems designed specifically for people with cases like yours.
One of the most important alternative sentencing programs in Pennsylvania is the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which is meant to steer first-time, nonviolent offenders into rehab programs in order to avoid a harsher sentence such as steep fines or jail time. The majority of ARD participants have been charged with drunk driving, but the program also serves people facing a variety of other nonviolent charges. ARD eligibility standards and program requirements vary significantly by county, so schedule a free initial consultation to hear more about the specific options available to you.
Treatment Court Offers Rehabilitation Support
For many drug users facing criminal charges, it can be difficult to avoid future charges because addiction compels you to keep buying, carrying, and consuming drugs even when you know the problems they can cause for you.
If you are ready to overcome your addiction or are seeking legal help for a loved one struggling with addiction, we can help you pursue your case in one of Pennsylvania's treatment courts - also known as drug courts in some counties.
There are similar separate court options for those struggling with mental health issues, and also for military veterans struggling with PTSD and other conditions.
Seek An Expungement To Keep Your Record Clean
For summary offenses, an expungement can be requested if you successfully avoid additional convictions for a period of five years.
As of 2016, Pennsylvania also allows nonviolent misdemeanors to be expunged from your record after sufficient time has passed.
By statute, people who have completed an Alternative Rehabilitative Disposition program are eligible to have all records related to that offense expunged.
It's crucial that the appropriate documents are filed, and all relevant agencies are identified in the application for expungement, and that they all receive a copy of the order - your expungement is only effective if the records have been erased at all relevant agencies.
Contact An Experienced Lawyer Today
Criminal defense attorney Eric D. Strand has been defending clients in Pennsylvania for more than 15 years. No matter what charges you are facing, we can help you reach the best possible outcome in your case.
To see how Strand Law Offices, LLC, can help in your case, contact us online or call us and schedule a free initial consultation in our West Chester office.