The Benefits and Drawbacks of Entering the ARD Program for DUI Charges
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, you may have heard about the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. This program is designed to give first-time, non-violent offenders a second chance by avoiding the harsh penalties of a DUI conviction. While the ARD program can offer significant benefits, it’s not the right fit for everyone. As a Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney with years of experience, I’m here to break down the pros and cons of the ARD program to help you make an informed decision.
What is the ARD Program?
The ARD program is a pre-trial intervention program offered in Pennsylvania. It is typically available to first-time DUI offenders who meet certain criteria. If accepted into the program, participants must complete specific requirements, such as attending alcohol education classes, paying fines and fees, and possibly performing community service. Upon successful completion, the participant’s charges can be dismissed, and their record may be eligible for expungement.
Benefits of the ARD Program
1. Avoiding a Criminal Conviction
One of the biggest advantages of entering the ARD program is the opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction. This can be a game-changer for your future, as a DUI conviction can impact your employment, housing opportunities, and more.
2. Expungement Opportunities
After successfully completing the program, you may be eligible to have your DUI arrest expunged from your record. This means that future employers or landlords won’t see the DUI charge when conducting background checks.
3. Reduced Penalties
Participants in the ARD program often face less severe penalties compared to those convicted of a DUI. This can include reduced fines, no jail time, and a shorter license suspension (typically 30 to 90 days).
4. No Admission of Guilt
Entering the ARD program does not require you to plead guilty. This can be advantageous if you’re concerned about admitting fault while still addressing the charges against you.
5. Rehabilitation Focus
The program’s requirements, such as alcohol education and treatment, focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. This can help participants address underlying issues and prevent future offenses.
Drawbacks of the ARD Program
1. Cost
Participating in the ARD program can be expensive. Between court costs, fines, program fees, and possible treatment expenses, the financial burden can be significant. It’s important to weigh these costs against the potential long-term savings from avoiding a conviction.
2. Limited Availability
The ARD program is not available to everyone. If you have prior DUI convictions, caused an accident with serious injuries, or had a particularly high blood alcohol content (BAC), you may not qualify. Eligibility varies by county, so it’s crucial to consult an experienced attorney.
3. Strict Requirements
Once accepted into the ARD program, participants must adhere to strict requirements, including attending classes, completing community service, and paying fines on time. Failing to meet these requirements can result in removal from the program and reinstatement of the original charges.
4. License Suspension
While the license suspension period is shorter for ARD participants, it is still a penalty that can disrupt your daily life, especially if you rely on your vehicle for work or family responsibilities.
5. Not Always the Best Option
In some cases, entering the ARD program might not be the best strategy. For example, if there are strong defenses available to contest your DUI charges, it might be worth fighting the case instead of accepting ARD.
Should You Enter the ARD Program?
Deciding whether to enter the ARD program is a personal choice that depends on your unique circumstances. Factors like your eligibility, financial situation, and long-term goals should all play a role in your decision-making process.
As your attorney, my goal is to provide you with the guidance and information you need to make the best choice for your future. If you’re facing DUI charges in Pittsburgh or the surrounding area, contact our office today. I’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Final Thoughts on the ARD Program in Pennsylvania
The ARD program offers a valuable opportunity for eligible individuals to move forward without the lasting consequences of a DUI conviction. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding both the benefits and drawbacks of the program is essential to making an informed decision. With the right legal representation, you can navigate the complexities of the system and protect your future.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.