DUI and ARD: Important Information to Know
April 12, 2021
Being arrested for a DUI can be a very stressful experience. Often it is the case when an individual calls our office regarding their DUI arrest, it is their first time ever having to face criminal charges. While every case is unique, many individuals facing a DUI for the first time are eligible for a diversionary program that will dismiss their DUI upon successful completion. Having an experienced DUI attorney in Pennsylvania will make all the difference in your case.
What is ARD? How does ARD affect my DUI? Does everyone get into ARD?
Throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, various counties offer to first time DUI offenders the option of applying for ARD. ARD is short for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition. It is a 6-12 month program that involves the completion of:
Completion of Alcohol Highway Safety School
Payment of Court Costs and Fines
A period of license suspension ( 0 days for lowest tier DUI, 30 days for a middle tier dui. 60 days for highest tier dui, and 90 days if the individual is a minor
IMPORTANT: If you are a commercial driver you will lose your license for 1 year regardless of completing the ARD program.
Other requirements if mandated by the District Attorney's Office of the specific county where the defendant was arrested in.
It is important to note that, the ARD program is often managed by the District Attorney's Office and NOT by the court. What this means is that your specific DUI case may be accepted or rejected depending on the specific facts of your case. Reasons for rejection of an ARD application may include:
Excessive speeding
Accident involving property damage or injury to another individual
Excessive Blood Alcohol Content
Prior Criminal History
A child under the age of 14 was in the vehicle at the time of the stop
Nature of the DUI
While rejections of ARD do occur, there are many instances where an experienced DUI attorney can resubmit your application with additional facts and mitigating factors in order to have you approved.
Once an individual is approved and completes the ARD program, they can apply to have their record expunged so that they have no criminal background appear when applying to jobs, schools, housing etc. If an individual is interested in having their record expunged, our criminal defense attorneys will be more than happy to assist in this process.
Who Can I call if I have more questions about ARD?
At The Town Law, we understand just how stressful facing criminal charges can be. With our vast experience handling criminal cases throughout Bucks County, Delaware County, Chester County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County in Pennsylvania, we are well-equipped to ensure you get the best result possible with experienced criminal defense attorneys by your side throughout the process. Contact our firm today for a free consultation. Our staff of experienced attorneys is dedicated to the best outcomes for all of our clients.