What is New Jersey’s Pre-Trial Intervention Program and How Does it Work?
The Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI) in New Jersey allows individuals an opportunity to avoid going to court and the stigma of having a criminal record. PTI is a rehabilitative program for first-time offenders and aims to prevent future transgressions instead of simply penalizing the alleged offender. Individuals interested in seeking help for problems such as drug or alcohol addiction may accept responsibility for their actions and seek rehabilitation to avoid jail time. While not everyone is accepted to a PTI program, first-time offenders would be well-advised to discuss their legal options with a skilled New Jersey criminal defense lawyer.
There are a number of reasons why a PTI program could be a worthwhile endeavor for someone charged with a crime in New Jersey. Acceptance into a PTI program eliminates the many fees that may be associated with a formal court process. If the defendant completes the program successfully, a criminal record will not be created.
Individuals with an addiction who apply for a PTI program will receive care for their addiction instead of having to spend time in jail wasting valuable resources. Often times, jail or prison time is not the solution to our communities' problems. A typical PTI program may last from one to three years. Individuals in a program may be subject to random drug screenings. Failure in a PTI program will result in the defendant going back to trial or to jail.
The attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein know and clearly understand all the legal options available to New Jersey residents who have been charged with a crime. If you are facing charges, let us review the specifics of your case. Call us at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation today.
