Any person arrested for DUI Bethlehem PA for the first time will probably find themselves in the Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD) program. It is a program designed to intervene early in the lives of first offenders and get them back on track. Often these charges are related to alcohol and drug abuse. Second the ARD program clears court dockets, making room for more serious criminals in court and eventually in jail.
This may appear to be an easy way out for the charged person. But in the end there will be a guilty plea. It is important that the defendant speak with an attorney prior to making any such admission. Almost all of the people in the ARD program were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substances. Therefore the judges there are quite familiar with the issues surrounding such a charge. To be eligible the accused must be facing their first DUI charge or have a very limited criminal record. They must not have any violent activity in their past as well. If the District Attorney agrees to let the defendant enter the program, they will be subject to court supervision that is similar to probation. This period could last up to two years. During that time defendant could be required to pay back the injured party, perform community service, and or enter a drug treatment program. If they fail to complete the program, Their DUI Bethlehem case will be reactivated. They will be back where they started awaiting trial. However, if the defendant successfully completes the program, they can ask the court to dismiss their case and expunge their record.
Unfortunately not all drivers charged with a DUI Bethlehem PA learn their lesson after a single charge. If they are pulled over for repeated DUI charges, then they can expect to have their license revoked. If they also refuse to participate in a blood alcohol or chemical test, the charges and punishment could be much more severe. Any driver in this situation should contact an lawyer that specializes in DUI cases immediately. They can work with them to either protect their right to drive or have their license restored.
