Panama City Pretrial Diversion & Intervention Lawyer – Bay County PTI Help
Avoid a Criminal Conviction with a Pretrial Diversion Program in Bay County, Florida
Dana Morris is an experienced criminal defense attorney in Panama City, Florida, helping clients navigate Florida’s Pretrial Diversion Program to avoid a criminal conviction. The program allows eligible defendants to complete specific requirements in exchange for dismissal of charges, keeping your record clean and your future intact.
The Morris Law Firm represents clients facing criminal charges in Panama City, Panama City Beach, Lynn Haven, Bay County, and throughout Northwest Florida.
Benefits of a Pretrial Diversion Program in Florida
Individuals who successfully complete a Pretrial Diversion Program may:
- Have criminal charges dismissed
- Avoid a permanent criminal conviction
- Potentially qualify for expungement
- Avoid the stress, cost, and uncertainty of a criminal trial
We recommend that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney in Panama City, Florida, to review your charges and see if you qualify for the Pretrial Diversion Program or the Pretrial Intervention Program. Dana Morris, at The Morris Law Firm, offers free consultations to review your charges and explain your options.
Call (850) 257-5680 now to speak directly with a Panama City pretrial diversion lawyer.
Who Qualifies for the Pretrial Diversion Program in Bay County?
Eligibility is determined by the Office of the State Attorney for Florida’s 14th Judicial Circuit, which prosecutes cases in Bay County. You may qualify if:
- You have little or no prior criminal record
- The State Attorney’s Office approves your participation
- Your charge is eligible for diversion (a criminal defense attorney can help determine if pretrial diversion is available for your specific charge in Bay County)
View eligible misdemeanor offenses for diversion in Bay County
Once you are accepted into the Pretrial Diversion Program, you will need to complete an online test, serve or pay for eight community service hours, and pay the assessed fees (see below).
Pretrial Diversion Program Requirements
Once you are accepted into the Pretrial Diversion Program, you have 90 days to complete all program conditions. This includes:
- Completing an online test with a passing score of 70% or higher. (open book, so you may use the internet)
In addition to the test, you must complete one of the following options:
- Pay $280 online or by money order/cashier’s check
OR - Pay $200 online or by money order/cashier’s check AND complete 8 hours of community service at a non-profit organization
OR - Complete 28 hours of community service at a non-profit organization
Note: Program requirements, eligibility, and fees are determined by the State Attorney’s Office and may change. Cases are typically handled through the Bay County Courthouse in Panama City.
Pretrial Intervention (PTI)
For first-time offenders facing more serious charges, Florida law offers a Pretrial Intervention Program, which generally involves additional requirements and a longer completion period than the Pretrial Diversion Program.
Florida pretrial intervention programs are authorized under Florida Statute 948.08, which allows eligible defendants to avoid prosecution upon successful completion of court-approved program requirements.
Call The Morris Law Firm at (850) 257-5680 to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Panama City or Bay County. Early legal help can improve your chances of acceptance into the Pretrial Diversion Program or Pretrial Intervention Program.
Why Choose Dana Morris for Pretrial Diversion in Panama City, FL?
Dana Morris has over 25 years of criminal law experience, including time as a prosecutor and more than a decade defending clients in Bay County. His knowledge of local courts and prosecutors allows him to:
- Maximize your chances of acceptance into the Pretrial Diversion Program
- Negotiate on your behalf with the State Attorney’s Office
- Protect your rights and future opportunities
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, Dana Morris will guide you through the process and work to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact a Panama City Pretrial Diversion Lawyer Today
The sooner you hire a Panama City pretrial diversion lawyer, the better your chances of acceptance into the Pretrial Diversion Program or Pretrial Intervention Program, helping you avoid a criminal conviction and keep your record clean.
Call (850) 257-5680 today for a free case review.
