A drug arrest in Waco doesn’t mean your life has to change forever. McLennan County offers Pretrial Intervention (PTI) programs that help first-time offenders avoid a permanent criminal record. These programs allow people to prove they can make better choices and move forward with their lives.
What is pretrial intervention?
PTI works as an alternative to going to court. Instead of facing traditional prosecution, you complete a supervised program that usually runs for 6 to 12 months. When you finish the program successfully, the court dismisses your charges. You can then ask the court to clear your arrest record through expungement.
What PTI offers drug offenders
The PTI program in McLennan County gives first-time drug offenders many ways to stay on track. Here’s what you can keep:
- Your clean criminal record
- Your job options
- Your chance to go to school
- Your housing choices
- Your right to get help for substance use
To stay in the program, you must:
- Take regular drug tests
- Go to drug education classes
- Do community service
- Pay monthly fees
- Keep your job or stay in school
- Stay out of trouble
Who can join PTI?
The McLennan County District Attorney’s office looks at each case carefully. You might qualify if you:
- Have never had a felony conviction
- Face charges for a non-violent crime
- Show you want to change
- Have had very few run-ins with the law before
PTI demands commitment but offers something worth working for: A clean slate. The program helps you deal with drug issues while protecting your future. But before you decide, remember that PTI rules are strict and breaking them has profound results. A criminal defense lawyer can tell you if PTI fits your situation and help you take the proper steps to protect your future.
