How do you get into the ARD program?

How do you get into the ARD program?

Generally, individuals who want to be placed into the ARD program must submit a written application to the District Attorney’s Office within 30 days of the preliminary hearing. Generally, an individual must waive their preliminary hearing and formal arraignment to receive ARD.

Is Ard a conviction in PA?

ARD does not, and has never resulted in a conviction or finding of guilt. Nevertheless, under prior Pennsylvania law, a DUI that was dismissed through the ARD program was treated as a prior conviction for purposes of the mandatory minimum sentence enhancement for repeat DUI offenders.

What happens if ARD is denied?

If the prosecutor denied ARD for an illegal reason, a defense lawyer can file a motion and try to convince a judge to overrule the judge’s decision. District attorney’s normally state that ARD was denied based upon the severity of the charges or the fact pattern involved, claiming that the person’s conduct was too bad.

How much does an ARD cost?

ARD isn’t cheap A DUI charge that’s directed into ARD can cost $3,000 to $4,000 or more. Fees include supervision fees, enrollment fees, program costs, and court costs.

How long does it take to get accepted into ARD?

This is a lengthy process that can take up to six months to complete. Q: Am I required to pay off all outstanding case balances on previous common plea cases before entering ARD? A: Yes.

How long is ARD program?

ARD halts the prosecution in its tracks The maximum time period to finish ARD is 24 months. However, ARD for DUI is usually for 6 to 12 months. Once your ARD is completed, including the payment of all fees and court costs, the original charges are dismissed.

What does the ARD program consist of?

While in an ARD program, defendants are placed under supervision, similar to probation. They may also be ordered to do community service. The defendant doesn’t have to admit to any wrongdoing when applying for ARD, but must plead guilty to any summary offenses, usually violations of the motor vehicle code.

Is Ard pleading guilty?

While ARD is very similar to probation, it differs in that the offender never pleads guilty. ARD is not an admission of guilt. In fact, if ARD is not completed successfully, the District Attorney can petition the court to have the offender removed from the ARD program.