If you’re arrested for a crime, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drug possession, you understand the potential consequences of your actions. Furthermore, you may have concerns about these consequences, as they have the potential to include jail time.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to put yourself in the best possible position for making a full recovery after your arrest. For example, the Indiana legislature created a pretrial diversion program that is more or less a pretrial probation period.
Here are some important things to know about the Indiana pretrial diversion program:
- It’s typically only an option for first time offenders who committed a non-violent crime
- The pretrial diversion program does not have the same set up as active probation, such as weekly reporting and regular urine tests
- Participants in the pretrial diversion program are required to meet a variety of terms and conditions
- Participants must pay a variety of fees associated with the program and their case
Are you eligible for the pretrial diversion program?
While the pretrial diversion program is available to many people, this doesn’t hold true for everyone.
As noted above, it’s typically for first time offenders who committed a non-violent crime. Furthermore, if your crime is charged as a felony, you’re not eligible for diversion.
You can learn more about the pretrial diversion program and you eligibility during your first court appearance.
What’s next?
If you learn that you’re eligible to participate in the pretrial diversion program, there are a few things the court requires:
- A written admission of your guilt
- Pay a fee of $330 upon signing the agreement
- Pay the cost of additional fees associated with your case, within one year
Along with the above, it’s critical to understand the terms of the agreement, such as the condition to conduct community service.
Even if you don’t think you’re eligible for the pretrial diversion program, it never hurts to learn more. You may find that you’re able to enter this program, thus avoiding serious consequences that can impact your life for many years to come.
Visit our website and read our blog for more information on the Indiana pretrial diversion program, your eligibility and related issues.
