What Is Pre-Trial Intervention?
Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is a program that offers first time felony offenders a chance to avoid some of the hurdles of having a criminal conviction by moving their case away from the trial court process. If you have been charged with a qualifying third degree felony, you might be eligible for this program.
The PTI program is like being on probation. After you successfully complete the program, the charges against you will be dismissed. Typical conditions of PTI include:
- Monthly reporting
- Payment of supervision fees
- Community service
- Appropriate counseling or treatment
Who Is Eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention?
According to Florida Statute Section 948.08, “Any first offender, or any person previously convicted of not more than one nonviolent misdemeanor, who is charged with any misdemeanor or felony of the third degree is eligible for release to the pre-trial intervention program on the approval of the administrator of the program and the consent of the victim, the state attorney, and the judge who presided at the initial appearance hearing of the offender.”
Under other stipulations in Florida Statutes Section 948.08, “A person who is charged with a felony of the second or third degree for purchase or possession of a controlled substance …or obtaining a prescription by fraud; who has not been charged with a crime involving violence…and who has not previously been convicted of a felony nor been admitted to a felony pretrial program referred to in this section is eligible for voluntary admission into a pretrial substance abuse education and treatment intervention program.”
What Are the Benefits of Pre-Trial Intervention?
Some of the benefits of pre-trial intervention include:
- Avoiding the stress of a criminal trial
- Avoiding the possibility of a criminal conviction
- Avoiding a permanent criminal record
St. Augustine Criminal Defense Lawyers
Are you facing a criminal conviction? Our team of attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights. We have the resources and skills that you need secure the justice that you deserve. Let us fight for you today.
Call 904-471-3434 to request your free consultation with one of our St. Augustine criminal defense attorneys.
