As way of background, pretrial intervention (“PTI”) or misdemeanor intervention program (“MIP”) are pretrial intervention programs for first time offenders. Ultimately, the programs are run by the State Attorney’s Office, but administrated by a third-party. For example, the Salvation Army administers the program in Polk and Hillsborough counties. It is worth noting these programs were previously coordinated by the Salvation Army in Pinellas County, but they will likely be run by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office now in light of their takeover of misdemeanor probation.
The State Attorney’s Office has the final say as to whether individuals are accepted into these programs. There are multiple articles on our blog providing information regarding the specifics of these pretrial programs as they are very flexible.
As the criminal attorneys of Hackworth Law have told countless individuals, while these programs do require more work than simply entering a plea to the charge and paying a fine, but the programs do result in the charges being dropped. You will often hear these programs referred to as “the best deal in the courthouse.” While it is impossible to identify what the specific requirements and provisions of your program will be, generally they involve community service, some sort of a class and paying a small fine. For example, often a misdemeanor marijuana charge will often involve drug testing, a class concerning drug abuse and a fine. At the end of the day, the long term implications of a conviction are far more damaging than the time spent on these programs.
If you or someone you know has questions concerning pretrial intervention or misdemeanor intervention program, contact the criminal lawyers of Hackworth Law for a free case consultation. We look forward to hearing from you and appreciate you taking the time to read our blog.