Benefits of the ARD Program

You will not be “convicted” of a crime if you enter the ARD program. Furthermore the loss of your operating privileges will be for a short period of time, rather than the full year for a first
time DUI conviction.

For example, if your blood alcohol is between a .10 and .159, your driving privileges most likely will only be suspended for one month (depending on summary offenses and other variables).

If you blood alcohol level is above a .16, then your suspension period will most likely be for two months. The maximum period for ARD is tow years, but for most DUIs the period is one year. Some counties even shorten this period to six months if you have completed all of your requirements.

Another advantage is that completing the ARD program allows you to answer “no” on job applications that ask if you have ever been convicted of a crime. (You can also safely answer “no” to any question about whether you have ever been in an ARD program – employer's don't have the right to ask this, and they don't have access to the court records – they are sealed in the office of the District Attorney).

Additionally, 30 days after completion of the program, you can go to court to get the arrest record and ARD record expunged- cleaned up completely and removed from your past. Only the District Attorney will know, and it will not come back to haunt you, unless you are subsequently arrested for DUI or another crime (in which case you will be treated a second time offender unless ten years have elapsed). Be aware, however, that it takes longer to clean up your record with the Department of Transportation.

If you or a loved one have been charged with DUI or a non-violent offense, ARD may be an option. Call Attorney Quinlan today at 717 202-2277 to discuss your case. Consultations are always free and we sincerely enjoy helping good people through tough times.