Pumphrey Law Leon County Pretrial Intervention and Diversion FAQ

Leon County Pretrial Intervention and Diversion FAQ

For many individuals charged with nonviolent misdemeanors or third-degree felonies, Leon County Pretrial Intervention offers a second-chance. Pretrial Intervention, commonly refereed to as the Diversion program, gives defendants the opportunity to have their charges dropped if they complete the conditions of the program.

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Are Pretrial Intervention and Pretrial Diversion the same thing?

Yes, these terms are interchangeable and both represent the same type of deferred prosecution agreement.

What are the Benefits of Pretrial Intervention?

Pretrial Intervention can act as a second chance and save the defendant a ton of trouble and future headaches. This program is designed to keep first-time offenders from being convicted criminals by enrolling them in a Florida Pretrial Intervention Program.

How does Pretrial Intervention Work?

Pretrial Intervention often consists of counseling, community service, supervision, and can even include treatment. Conditions of the specific program can vary but often include supervision fees, the aforementioned community service, and reporting to a supervising officer on a regular basis. Once the program is successfully completed, the defendant’s charges are typically dismissed. If the terms of the program are not met, the State Attorney will likely proceed with the criminal charges.

Who is Eligible for Pretrial Intervention?

Pretrial Intervention in Florida is typically available to defendants previously convicted of no more than one nonviolent misdemeanor in the event that they are charged with any misdemeanor or third-degree felony.

How do I get on Pretrial Diversion?

If you wish to see if you qualify for Pretrial Intervention, call an experienced criminal defense attorney. Enrollment in Pretrial Intervention is typically done at the discretion of the state attorney and administrator of the PTI program.

Can I Participate in Pretrial Diversion if I Live in a Different State or Country?

If you live in a different state or county, yes you can typically participate in the pretrial diversion program. However, if you live in another country, you are not eligible for Pretrial Intervention.

What if I do not want to do Pretrial Diversion?

If a defendant is not interested in pursuing Pretrial Diversion, they may see the criminal proceedings through in hopes of a better result through the court system. It is advised that you consult with your defense attorney on what options are in your best interest.

What if I Can’t Afford the Pretrial Fees?

If finances are of concern and you feel you may not be able to afford the fees of pretrial intervention program, it is recommended you reach out to a Pretrial officer and your criminal defense attorney before deciding to accept or decline the offer. Some municipalities may offer payment plans.

What if I do not successfully complete the terms of Pretrial Diversion?

If an individual fails to complete the terms of Pretrial Diversion in Florida, the State Attorney will be notified and a court date will be issued to proceed with the case through the criminal court system.

If I Have Been Arrested/Charged but not Found Guilty, What Should I Put on Job Applications?

Prior to completing the terms of your Pretrial Diversion agreement, your criminal record will indicate that you are charged with a crime and the case is unresolved. Once you have successfully completed the program, the record will still indicate that you were charged with a crime but that you were entered in a deferred prosecution program and were not convicted.

Tallahassee and Leon County Pretrial Diversion Resources

• Leon County Office of Intervention and Detention Alternatives
• Leon County Community Service & Work Program
• Leon County Drug and Alcohol Testing
• Leon County Probation and Pretrial Diversion FAQ