Learn ARD Conditions and Consequences at the Law Office of Henry Hilles, III
Fulfillment of the conditions of the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) requirements means:
- No jail time
- No conviction
- Minimized driver's license suspension; in some counties, if you comply with certain conditions prior to your final court date, your driver's privileges may be revoked for as little as one month instead of one year.
- Efficient, timely and cost-effective resolution of your DUI case
ARD: Get Out of Jail Free — One-Time Only Use
ARD is like a one-time "get out of jail free" card for first-time DUI offenders. To be admitted into the ARD Program, the DA's Office must be convinced that you are a person of good character who is suitable for the program. Each county has different criteria for acceptance into the program, and each has its own specific conditions that must be fulfilled.
My name is Henry Hilles, and I am a former Montgomery prosecutor who is now a DUI criminal defense lawyer. I have an intensive understanding of the rules and regulations governing the ARD Program. To learn more, contact me so we can meet at my office to discuss your case and the law, and whether ARD is the appropriate resolution for your specific case.
Conditions of ARD
The general idea behind ARD is that sometimes first-time offenders deserve rehabilitation rather than punishment and jail time. Most ARD program participants will be required to:
- Complete a drug and alcohol evaluation and to enroll in any recommended treatment
- Complete a DUI safe-driving school
- Attend supervision meetings
- Complete community service hours
- Follow and complete any other conditions of your specific ARD program agreement
Consequences of ARD — Violations
Failure to fulfill your ARD conditions will result in removal from the ARD program and a return to criminal court. You will be prosecuted under the mandatory sentences involved in DUI convictions. If you successfully complete the ARD program and are convicted for DUI again within a 10-year period, you will be charged as if you have already had a DUI conviction.
Expunging Sealing Your Record
After you meet all ARD requirements, you will still need to seek an expungement, which will lead to the destruction of records held by state agencies relating to your charges. I can manage your expungement process and ensure agencies are in compliance with the court order to expunge or close your record.
Talk to an Experienced ARD Attorney About Resolving Your DUI
Call my Norristown, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, law office to discuss your case and the Pennsylvania ARD program: 610-270-8800. If you prefer, you can send a secure and confidential e-mail.
