Most people with clean records want to keep them that way.
A drug or domestic offense arrest can adversely impact a person’s employment and freedom. A charge relating to a domestic offense can remove one from the home and restrict family contact.
People also worry that an arrest will be a public record, accessible to employers, schools and neighbors.
Contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney to intervene right away can make all the difference in the outcome.
Early intervention programs, aimed at first-time offenders and focusing on counseling and treatment (not incarceration) may be available.
Milwaukee County’s Diversion Program and Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) provide an opportunity to avoid or reduce criminal charges.
A Diversion participant is not charged, does not go to court, and avoids the case appearing on the public “CCAP” website.
Instead, the person can participate in treatment/counseling to avoid a criminal charge altogether. One not qualifying for Diversion may still have a charge reduced through a DPA.
In a DPA, a person is criminally charged and acknowledges guilt in court; however, the court may withhold judgment to allow completion of an agreement, usually requiring counseling, treatment and other conditions.
A DPA typically lasts six to nine months, with periodic court appearances to assess the participant’s compliance.
Upon DPA completion, a criminal charge may be reduced or even dismissed.
Sometimes, even a DPA participant charged with a felony offense can earn a reduction to a misdemeanor.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact Attorney Jacob Manian. Early intervention could make all the difference.
