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PTI (Pre-TRial Intervention)

Pre-Trial Intervention Program

Have you been charged with a criminal offense in the state of New Jersey? You might qualify for a diversionary program for certain first time adult offenders charged with a felony.

What Are The Benefits of the Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI)?

  • If PTI is successfully completed, there is no record of conviction and the defendant avoids the stigma of a criminal record.
  • Early intervention allows rehabilitative services to be provided soon after the alleged offense, in an attempt to correct the behavior that led to the offense.
  • Many of the costs associated with the formal court process are eliminated through acceptance into PTI.
  • PTI provides early resolution of a case which serves the interests of the victim, the public and the defendant.
  • PTI reduces the burden on the court and allows resources to be devoted to more serious criminals.

    • What are the Conditions for Participation In Pretrial Intervention?

    Supervision under the PTI program generally averages from one to three years. Certain standard conditions are imposed on those accepted into PTI, such as, random urine monitoring, and assessments for fees, penalties and fines. Additional conditions may also beimposed to require the performance of community service, payment of restitution, and submission to psychological and/or drug and alcohol evaluations with compliance to recommended treatment programs.

    If a defendant successfully completes all the conditions of PTI, then the original charges are dismissed and there is no record of conviction. If a defendant does not successfully complete the conditions of PTI, then the defendant is terminated from the PTI program and the case is returned to the trial list.

    Who is Eligible for Pretrial Intervention (PTI)?

    Any defendant who is charged with an indictable offense may apply.

    *Admission guidelines stated in the Court Rules set the following criteria:
  • Age - PTI is designed for adults.
  • Residence - PTI is designed for New Jersey residents, but others may apply.
  • Jurisdiction - Only defendants charged with criminal or penal offenses in New Jersey criminal or municipal courts.
  • Minor Violations - Not eligible if the likely result would be a suspended sentence without probation or a fine. Certain offense heard in the municipal court may qualify for a Conditional Discharge
  • rior Record of Convictions - PTI generally excludes defendants who have been previously convicted.
  • Parolees and Probationers - Generally excluded without prosecutor's consent and considered only after consultation with parole and probation departments.
  • Defendants Previously Diverted - excludes defendants who have previously been granted a diversionary program or conditional discharge.

    • How Does One Apply for Pretrial Intervention?

    Applications to PTI should be made as early as possible upon the commencement of proceedings to the Criminal Division Office in the county where the criminal charge is filed, but no later than twenty-eight days after indictment.

    The application process includes an interview with the defendant by a staff member of the Criminal Division of the Superior Court. A written report is prepared detailing the decision for admittance or rejection into the PTI program. This report is forwarded to the prosecutor and defense counsel. A defendant is accepted into PTI on the recommendation of the Criminal Division, with the consent of the prosecutor and the defendant. If accepted, the conditions for participation are set forth in the PTI Order and must be followed for the defendant to successfully complete.

    If for any reason the defendant is not accepted, the applicant may appeal the decision to the Presiding Judge of the Criminal Division. An appeal must be filed within ten (10) days of a denial.

    At the Essex County Law Offices of Kevin Crawford Orr, we believe that every person deserves the representation of an aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorney who will protect their rights. Attorney Kevin Crawford Orr has been protecting the rights of the accused for his entire legal career. He understands the serious consequences they face and the challenges of the courtroom.

      

    Quality and Responsive Legal Services
    Law Offices of Kevin Crawford Orr • (973) 824-5520

    We are prepared to handle any aspect of your application for PTI.

    Contact Us

    Criminal charges can haunt you for the rest of your life, but a good defense can make all the difference. At the Newark Law Offices of Kevin Crawford Orr, we can help you make sure your rights are protected in court. Contact us today to find out more about your options.

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