Pre-Trial Intervention Program

South Carolina: What is a Pre-Trial Intervention Program?

A Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is a program run in each South Carolina county as a means of criminal diversion. A PTI is meant to be a substitute for traditional prosecution. The Pre-Trial Intervention program serves as a second chance for first-time non-violent offenders. This program offers rehabilitation through alternative methods and it can be highly beneficial in many cases.

If you believe you qualify for this program and reside in Clarendon, Sumter, or Florence, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

Pretrial Intervention in South Carolina

A certain amount of crimes are ineligible for the PTI Program. Included in these crimes are those crimes deemed to be violent offenses, DUI/DWI offenses, Fish & Wildlife infractions, and minor crimes punishable by fines. Other ineligible crimes are determined by the court.

It is also important to know that if the offender has previously committed the same crime or another crime of the same nature then they are ineligible for PTI. 

Eligibility for Pretrial Intervention in South Carolina is for those who are first-time offenders, for those who the PTI Program will serve justice, and are 18 years or older.

South Carolina Criminal Codes also indicate further requirements to be eligible in the program including that the defendant not be deemed to participate in future criminal activity and that they pose no threat to their community. 

What happens if accepted into Pretrial Intervention in South Carolina?

PTI Programs can include the repayment of damages to victims, completing community service, being subject to random drug tests, participation in counseling and rehabilitation courses, and other requirements as determined by the court and head of the PTI program in the defendant’s county. 

PTI Programs can be beneficial to the defendant for multiple reasons. Successful completion of PTI results in the defendant’s case being dismissed and their record is expunged.

A clean record is important to have when applying to jobs, loans and credit, colleges, and other things where a background check is enforced. PTI takes away the “guilty or not guilty” aspect of criminal prosecution. Even if you believe you are innocent, a trial is not a guarantee to prove your innocence, so PTI could be a better option. PTI programs can also be quicker than a traditional prosecution, typically PTI programs last anywhere from 6 months to a year.

Call Our Law Firm Today for a Free Consultation

Hiring an attorney to represent you in court can benefit you greatly. If you or a loved one believe you can qualify for a pre-trial intervention program then contact us today. Click here

We fight aggressively for the rights of every client we represent. Call our law office at (803) 433-5368 to schedule your free consultation.