What happens if I violate ARD conditions or fail to complete requirements?

ARD Revocation for Violation of Program

Successful completion of ARD allows a person to have charges dismissed and expunged, but what happens if a person fails to complete the ARD requirements or violates a condition. People often violate ARD by getting arrested and having new criminal charges filed. Many people also fail to complete requirements like community service, DUI classes, counseling, or payment of ARD fees by the deadline.  In either situation, the district attorney may ARD termination paperwork with the court to have the person removed from ARD. If the person is removed, the district attorney would then resume prosecution of the charges, and the person could end up with a criminal record.

Failure to ARD Complete Requirements

In some of those situations, ARD may be saved.  If a person has not completed all ARD requirements, an extension of time can be requested, and the probation officer or a judge may give additional time in which to complete the requirements. If a person has completed most of the ARD requirements, an extension is more likely to be granted.  However, if the person has done very little or nothing, then it is less likely that an extension would be approved. Failure to request the extension will result in ARD termination. If a person is facing ARD removal because of new charges, the person needs to retain an experienced lawyer to provide representation in the new case.  If the new case can be dismissed or the severity of the new case is reduced, it increases the likelihood that ARD can be saved.

Case Review by Experienced ARD Attorney

Preserving ARD is NOT possible in every case.  Resolutions and outcomes often depend upon the precise facts and circumstances of each individual case, meaning every case is slightly different. If you or a loved one are facing removal from ARD, contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at JD Law in State College. They have been providing criminal defense representation and ARD removal cases since 2004, and experience matters. Send an email or leave a message at (814) 689-9139 for a free consultation.