You’ve worked hard to build your career and your financial stability, and now all of that is being threatened by drug charges. If you’re reading this post, then you’re probably worried about your future and what you can do to protect it. Although you may be able to suppress the prosecution’s evidence and obtain dismissed charges or an acquittal, there may be a better option in your circumstances: diversion.
How does diversion work?
Generally speaking, a diversion or intervention program requires you to complete certain components of an agreement with the state, and if you do so successfully then your arrest record and the charges levied against you will be expunged. Therefore, this can be a great way to keep your record clean and protect your job, your freedom, and your future.
Who qualifies for diversion?
There are multiple diversion programs out there. The felony controlled substance pretrial intervention program, though, is key in Harris County. Here, some individuals who have been charged with a felony for possessing personal use amounts of drugs like cocaine, ecstasy, and even methamphetamine and heroin may be able to clear their record.
In order to be eligible for the program, several requirements must be met, including the following:
- No prior felony convictions
- Not charged or under investigation for any other felony offense
- No evidence of an intent to manufacture or distribute the narcotic in question
- The accused individual has not participated in a pretrial diversion program before
- The charged individual agrees to participate in the program within 60 days of the first court hearing
- The amount of narcotic possessed in under an identified limit
Choosing the path that is right for you
If you decide to take part in a pretrial diversion program, then you’ll likely have to complete some sort of substance abuse treatment and follow the recommendations of treatment professionals. Although this may sound burdensome, it can be a lot better than going to jail.
So, if you’d like to learn more about your criminal defense options and want an assessment if diversion is right for you, then you may want to sit down with an attorney of your choosing to discuss the particular circumstances of your case.
