ARD & Treatment Courts

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ARD & Treatment Courts Attorney In West Chester, Pennsylvania

What is Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)?

Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) is a pre-trial intervention program in the state's criminal justice system, primarily for first-time offenders. This program is designed to provide swift rehabilitation measures instead of traditional punitive sentences. Participants in the ARD program are required to undergo probation, community service, and other rehabilitation measures, which, if successfully completed, allow for their criminal record to be expunged.

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How Does Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Work?

When an individual is admitted into the ARD program, they are placed under supervision, similar to probation. The duration of this program can vary but does not usually exceed two years. During this time, the participant might be required to enroll in educational programs, perform community service, pay restitution to the victims, or fulfill other such requirements. If the participant successfully completes the stipulated conditions and remains free of additional legal trouble, charges related to the original offense can be dismissed, and the arrest record can be expunged.


What are Treatment Courts?

Treatment Courts, also known as Problem-Solving Courts, are specialized court docket programs that tackle the root causes of criminal behavior, such as addiction and mental health issues. Instead of focusing solely on punishment, these courts aim to reduce recidivism and improve public safety by addressing the underlying problems that contribute to criminal behavior. They offer comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation services for eligible defendants and closely monitor progress through rigorous oversight and regular court appearances.

Seek An Expungement To Keep Your Record Clean

For summary offenses, an expungement can be requested if you successfully avoid additional convictions for a period of five years.


As of 2016, Pennsylvania also allows nonviolent misdemeanors to be expunged from your record after sufficient time has passed. By statute, people who have completed an Alternative Rehabilitative Disposition program are eligible to have all records related to that offense expunged.


It's crucial that the appropriate documents are filed, and all relevant agencies are identified in the application for expungement, and that they all receive a copy of the order - your expungement is only effective if the records have been erased at all relevant agencies.


Criminal defense attorney Eric D. Strand has been defending clients in Pennsylvania for more than 22 years. No matter what charges you are facing, we can help you reach the best possible outcome in your case.

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