Skilled Defense Attorney Negotiates Florida Pretrial Intervention and Diversion
Knowledgeable Orlando trial lawyer advocates for relief from prosecution
Pretrial intervention (PTI) is a court program offering accused offenders constructive alternatives to criminal conviction and incarceration. At The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A., we often represent individuals who have made an uncharacteristic mistake and now face the possibility of a criminal conviction and a weighty sentence. Mr. Yates is adept at evaluating the evidence against a defendant and assessing the likelihood of a favorable outcome at trial. Drawing on decades of experience, he negotiates with authorities to seek a resolution through PTI and other diversionary programs. While the final decision is always yours, Mr. Yates provides the knowledgeable guidance you need to make the right choice.
Who is eligible for PTI in Florida?
Pretrial intervention is generally open to first-time offenders and those previously convicted of nonviolent misdemeanors who are now charged with a misdemeanor or a third-degree felony. If the charges against you rate higher than a third-degree felony, a criminal defense lawyer can sometimes negotiate a reduction to lesser charges to clear the way for your participation.
Benefits of entering a pretrial intervention program
There are numerous advantages to entering PTI, including:
- Quick adjudication of your case
- Avoiding the cost of a trial
- Avoiding a conviction and a criminal record
- Avoiding jail time
- Preserving the possibility of your arrest being expunged
- Obtaining treatment for an issue that could lead to even more serious consequences
Pretrial intervention also opens the door to a variety of programs that can help you with substance abuse, anger management and other issues for which you can benefit from counseling.
Requirements of pretrial intervention programs
Misdemeanor Intervention Programs typically covers low-level, first-time offenders. Participants take classes, perform community service, attend counseling sessions and make restitution to their victims. They generally complete the program in three to six months.
Felony Pretrial Intervention Programs typically cover people charged with more serious crimes. The felony programs are run by the Department of Corrections. This type of PTI is more demanding in terms of time, cost and commitment. Though program requirements are often tailored to a participant’s specific circumstances, general requirements include the following:
- Reporting monthly to the Department of Probation
- Attending school and/or maintaining employment
- Completing a required number of hours of community service
- Paying a monthly fee for DOC supervision
- Paying restitution to victims, if applicable
Participants usually can complete their program in roughly 18 months.
Other diversionary programs tailored to specific offenses
Additional programs are available for:
- DUI drivers
- Domestic violence misdemeanors
- Driving with a suspended license
- Truancy
- Underage drinking
First-time offenders accused of drug crimes can also go before the drug court, if they are assessed with a substance abuse problem.
Mr. Yates represents adults and juveniles. Drawing on decades of experience, he evaluates your circumstances and recommends the best course of action. If pretrial intervention or another diversionary program is in your best interests, Mr. Yates negotiates with court officials and the program administrator to facilitate your entry.
Ask a trustworthy criminal defense attorney in Orlando about pretrial intervention programs
The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. counsels criminal defense clients on the benefits of pretrial intervention and diversionary programs in the Orlando area. For reliable counsel and determined representation, call the firm at 407-608-7777 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.