What “pre-trial Diversion” Is And How It Helps First-time Offenders

If you have been charged for a first-time, non-violent crime, you have plenty of options at your disposal. You are more than likely qualified for what is called “pre-trial diversion” (PTD), a program that targets first-time, nonviolent offenders who have been charged with crimes like shoplifting or drug possession. This program is run by the District Attorney’s office and acts as a “second chance” program for those who do not have a criminal record. To qualify for the program, you need the recommendation of an experienced attorney. If you have been charged with a non-violent crime, contact a lawyer immediately. This program is a great way to clear your name of any wrongdoing and avoid criminal charges that could follow you for the rest of your life.

How Does it Work?

The program was created to give non-violent, first-time offenders a second chance and provide services that can aid in deterring potential criminal offenses and/or behavior. The PTD program gives participants the opportunity to examine the poor life choices and errors in judgement that led to them being arrested. Participants are exposed to services that properly educate them and treat habits that will shape and change the behaviors that resulted in them breaking the law. The PTD program includes:

  • Personal and group counseling sessions
  • Drug and alcohol abuse education and treatment
  • Referrals to local community service organizations and charities

Additionally, PTD requires participants to pay restitution for any monetary damage their crimes may have caused and repay their communities through service. The program is closely supervised, ensuring program participants become protectors of their community. Participants will also be required to check-in regularly, complete alcohol and drug screening and/or any other requirements as determined by the court.

How Do I Qualify?

The PTD program is not open to anyone. Criteria for entering the program includes:

  • Must be a non-violent offender
  • Must be a first-time offender with no criminal history
  • Must be referred by a licensed Texas attorney
  • Must be admitted by a Texas District Attorney
  • Participant must acknowledge their wrongdoing and be willing to participate in the program

This program is a great opportunity to avoid criminal prosecution and get your life back on the right track. A criminal conviction can cause an individual great strife. It can affect your personal and professional goals as well as prevent you from being admitted to educational institutions. Upon completion of the program, you must then petition the courts to have all charges dropped and expunged from your record. Successful completion of the program will ensure your ability to move on with your life in a positive manner and avoid getting yourself into situations like these in the future.

If you are a non-violent, first-time offender and have been charged with a crime, please contact Wheeler Law Office immediately. We can be contacted 24/7 at (940) 465-3178 or visit our website. Our legal team is dedicated to aggressively defending our clients and achieving the best possible outcome. Being charged with even a non-violent crime can be a life-altering event. You need a lawyer that will relentlessly defend you to ensure that you are given the proper representation. We offer free consultation, flat fees, and payment plans to ensure this already difficult process does not get any more difficult.