Understanding the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Program in DUI Cases

Here’s what you need to know about ARD in DUI cases and how a criminal defense attorney can help you qualify and complete the program successfully.

What Is the ARD Program?

The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program is a pre-trial diversion program available in Pennsylvania for non-violent, first-time offenders. For DUI cases, it offers an opportunity to avoid trial, jail, and even a permanent criminal record—if the defendant agrees to certain conditions and completes the program successfully.

ARD is not a conviction. If completed properly, your DUI charge can be dismissed, and your record may become eligible for expungement.

Who Qualifies for ARD in DUI Cases?

Eligibility for ARD is not automatic—it is at the discretion of the District Attorney's Office in the county where the charges were filed. In Philadelphia and surrounding areas, eligibility usually depends on:

✅ Being a first-time DUI offender
✅ No serious injury or death occurred due to the DUI
✅ No minors were in the vehicle during the offense
✅ You haven’t participated in ARD previously

A defense attorney can help you apply for ARD and present mitigating factors that improve your chances of acceptance.

How the ARD Process Works

Here’s a general breakdown of how ARD works in a DUI case:

1. Apply for ARD through the court or District Attorney’s office (your lawyer will guide this).

2. If approved, you’ll waive your right to a trial and agree to follow the program conditions.

3. You’ll enter the program, which typically lasts 6 to 12 months.

4. Upon successful completion, your charges are dismissed, and you may petition to expunge your arrest record.

What Are the Conditions of ARD?

While ARD avoids a conviction, it’s not a free pass. Participants must comply with several conditions, which may include:

• Alcohol highway safety classes

• Community service hours

• Drug or alcohol treatment (if required)

• Probation or supervision (not incarceration)

• License suspension (length depends on your BAC)

For example:

• No license suspension if your BAC was under 0.10%

• 30-day suspension for BAC 0.10% to 0.159%

• 60-day suspension for BAC 0.16% or higher

Benefits of ARD for DUI Offenders

✅ Avoids a criminal conviction
✅ Prevents jail time in most cases
✅ Protects your record and employment prospects
✅ Shorter license suspension compared to conviction
✅ Eligible for expungement upon successful completion

The ARD program is particularly helpful for professionals, students, and others who could face job loss, license consequences, or immigration issues from a DUI conviction.

What Happens If You Don’t Complete ARD?

If you violate the terms of the program (e.g., fail to complete classes, reoffend, or miss court dates), you may be removed from ARD and prosecuted for the original DUI charge. You’ll lose the opportunity for expungement and face the full range of criminal penalties.

This is why it’s essential to take ARD seriously and complete all requirements on time.

Can a Lawyer Help You Get into ARD?

Absolutely. A defense attorney who knows the local court system can:

• Determine if you qualify for ARD

• Help apply and submit necessary paperwork

• Negotiate with the prosecutor if your eligibility is borderline

• Make sure your rights are protected during the process

• File for expungement after you finish the program

In Philadelphia, where DUI cases are frequent, having a lawyer with local experience is a key advantage.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, Criminal Defense Attorney, Today

If you’re a first-time DUI offender, the ARD program may offer you a clean slate—but it’s not guaranteed. Mark D. Hauser has over 30 years of experience helping clients in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania qualify for ARD, avoid convictions, and protect their futures.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.