How to get Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI)?

Often times, people who lead productive law abiding lives make a mistake in their adult life, that leads to an arrest. Of course, a criminal record can lead to loss of a job, embarrassment and other life changing events. If you are a first time offender, PTI may be a way that you can keep a “clean” record. If you or a loved one has been charged with a felony offense, it is important to understand how PTI (pre-trial intervention) works, so that your future in no tainted by one event in poor judgment.

Whether you live in Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex County or any other county in New Jersey, PTI supervisory programs are available in each county in the State of New Jersey. Usually, PTI is for 3rd and 4th degree offenders, however, an experienced criminal attorney could attempt to have the Prosecutor allow a 2nd degree offender apply to the program, and hopefully be accepted.

In order to be accepted, there is a two-phase application process, first you must be accepted by the probation department and then by the Prosecutor’s Office. Usually, PTI is for a 12 to 18 month time period. During the time period of PTI, you will need to report to a probation officer and follow all conditions imposed by the court. If there is an excessive amount of restitution to be paid back, then there might be a long time period for probation, but you can make an early release application. In addition, there is a community service component that one must complete which can range from 45 hours to 120 hours. All fines are to be paid through probation. It is important if you are accepted into PTI to comply with all conditions because you can be terminated and then face the original charges. After completion of PTI, you must wait 6 months to have the matter expunged.

It is imperative that an experienced criminal New Jersey lawyer helps you get into PTI because it is an opportunity that could save your future.