Pre-Trial Intervention
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, it's important to know the options available for your defense. One option is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), a program that allows defendants to avoid the traditional criminal trial process and the long-term consequences of a conviction.
The Pre-Trial Intervention Program can help you keep a clean record and get your life back on track. However, understanding the eligibility requirements and legal processes can be challenging.
At Kesling Law Firm, we are committed to helping you protect your rights and providing the legal guidance you need. With over a decade of experience, we serve clients throughout Alabama, including Orange Beach, Baldwin County, and the Gulf Coast, including Gulf Shores, Foley, Elberta, Summerdale, and Josephine.
Our goal is to help you understand the eligibility requirements for the Pre-Trial Intervention Program and how it can help you overcome the charges against you.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention?
Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is a program intended for first-time offenders or individuals facing certain types of criminal charges. Instead of going to trial and potentially being convicted, a defendant who completes a PTI program can get their charges dismissed. In essence, PTI works as a way to learn from your mistakes without facing a criminal record that could impact your future.
PTI programs are unique and may have several requirements, including community service, restitution to victims, counseling, educational courses, drug or alcohol treatment programs, and regular check-ins with a supervising officer.
These programs offer an alternative to the traditional court process and often involve collaboration between the defendant, prosecutors, and court officials. For participants, it provides an opportunity to rehabilitate and avoid long-term consequences like difficulty finding employment, securing housing, or further damaging their personal lives.
For the courts, PTI reduces the burden of processing cases, allowing resources to be focused on more serious or violent crimes. However, to be admitted into a PTI program, you must meet specific criteria and receive approval from the prosecutor.
Alabama Laws and Eligibility for Pre-Trial Intervention
In Alabama, several laws and guidelines govern Pre-Trial Intervention programs. Under Alabama Code § 12-17-226, district attorneys can create and oversee PTI programs in their jurisdictions. While the exact requirements and offerings vary from county to county, these programs are generally designed for first-time offenders accused of non-violent crimes. Some potentially eligible offenses may include:
Minor drug offenses (e.g., possession of marijuana for personal use)
Theft and property crimes
Certain misdemeanors and Class C felonies
Traffic offenses under certain circumstances
However, individuals with a history of violent crimes, repeat offenders, or those accused of severe charges are usually ineligible for PTI. Moreover, the program is discretionary, meaning you need approval from the district attorney’s office to participate. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine willingness to learn, improve, and take responsibility for their actions.
Any violations of the terms of the program could result in removal. If this happens, the original charges are reinstated, and the case proceeds to trial. If you're curious whether you might be eligible for a PTI program, reach out to Kesling Law Firm today to discuss your case.
What Makes Pre-Trial Intervention Meaningful?
Pre-trial intervention promotes accountability and personal growth, allowing participants to make amends and avoid the stigma attached to a criminal record. Many PTI programs focus heavily on education and rehabilitation. Therefore, someone charged with possession of a minor drug offense might enter a PTI program that includes drug education or addiction counseling.
Similarly, someone charged with theft may be required to complete a financial responsibility course along with community service or restitution payments. By addressing the root causes of criminal behavior, such as financial hardship, substance abuse, or lack of awareness, PTI helps reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
These programs offer more than just a way out of the legal system; they provide a path forward, which is why Kesling Law Firm helps clients explore PTI when it’s a good fit for their case.
However, handling the legal requirements of PTI can be intimidating and confusing. Our experience working with the courts allows us to simplify the process for you. We’ll handle the legal details while you focus on complying with the program and working toward a positive outcome.
Why You Need Legal Representation for Pre-Trial Intervention
Pre-trial intervention may sound straightforward, but it is often complicated. Eligibility for PTI depends on your criminal history, the type of offense, and the prosecutor’s discretion. Even a minor misstep during the application process can jeopardize your chances of acceptance. Some of the ways our firm can help include:
Determining if you are eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention
Negotiating with the district attorney’s office on your behalf
Explaining the program's requirements and make sure you’re prepared to meet them
Advocating for you during any court appearances related to your case
Guiding you through the process to increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome
We work tirelessly to make sure our clients take full advantage of the options available to them. We strive to help you avoid penalties and move forward without a criminal record.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
For over ten years, Kesling Law Firm has represented clients across the Gulf Coast of Alabama, including Orange Beach, Baldwin County, Gulf Shores, Josephine, Foley, Elberta, and Summerdale. We deliver exceptional legal care coupled with a strong commitment to our clients.
Our firm leverages our knowledge and experience in criminal defense to fight for the best possible result. Call Kesling Law Firm today for help with pre-trial intervention or criminal defense support.