DUI: Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Program

By: Ashley E. Rundell, Esquire, Associate Attorney, Fiffik Law Group, P.C.

When someone is charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (“DUI”), especially for the first time, there is always uncertainty regarding how the charge could affect them in the future. The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (“ARD”) Program, available in all Pennsylvania counties, allow offenders charged with a DUI to enter a probationary program to greatly reduce the impact and consequences of the charge.

Instead of being found guilty and faced the requisite consequences, ARD programs allow offenders to avoid a conviction and complete a set of requirements with no jail time or significant license suspension. These requirements include a period of probation, payment of court fees and restitution (if any), Alcohol Highway Safety School, a drug and alcohol evaluation, and a license suspension of about 30-90 days depending on the charge.

To be accepted into the ARD program in any county, the local District Attorney must first find you eligible and then a judge must accept you into the program. As there are some restrictions to eligible, it is important to discuss with an experienced criminal defense attorney about the circumstances surrounding your pending charges. If you are eligible, the attorney can work with you to ensure all requirements of the program are satisfied. The ARD program allows for a fresh start, as the criminal record will be expunged upon completion of all requirements.

To discuss whether your case may be eligible for ARD, contact our attorneys today.