Are you facing criminal charges in Chicago or the surrounding areas? You could be eligible for a deferred prosecution program, which may be able to help you avoid a conviction and keep your record clean. At Spodek Law Group, our Chicago criminal defense attorneys can work with you through the process, and more importantly help you determine if a deferred prosecution program is right for your individual case.
What is a Deferred Prosecution Program?
A deferred prosecution program is an alternative to traditional criminal prosecution. Instead of going to trial, or pleading guilty, you are agreeing to complete requirements, like community service, restitution, or counseling. If you successfully complete the program, the criminal charges against you will be dismissed1.
Deferred prosecution programs are usually offered to first-time offenders charged with non-violent crimes, such as:
Not all crimes are eligible for deferred prosecution, and the specific requirements and eligibility criteria differ by county2.
Benefits of Deferred Prosecution
The main benefit of a deferred prosecution program is that it allows you to avoid a criminal conviction. This can be crucial for your future, as a conviction can make it difficult to:
- Find employment
- Obtain housing
- Gain admission to schools1
By completing a deferred prosecution program, you can keep your record clean and move on with your life.
How to Get into a Deferred Prosecution Program
Getting into a deferred prosecution program is not easy or automatic. You will need an experienced criminal defense attorney who has cultivated relationships with prosecutors and can convince them to offer the program1.At Spodek Law Group, our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience handling criminal cases in Chicago and the surrounding areas. We know the ins and outs of the deferred prosecution programs in each county and can help you navigate the process.Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
- We will review your case and determine if you are eligible for a deferred prosecution program.
- If you are eligible, we will negotiate with the prosecutor to get you into the program.
- We will explain the requirements of the program and help you develop a plan to successfully complete them.
- If you successfully complete the program, we will ensure that the charges against you are dismissed.
Cook County Deferred Prosecution Programs
In Cook County, the State’s Attorney’s Office offers several deferred prosecution programs, including:
Drug Deferred Prosecution Program
This program is for first-time offenders charged with possession of a controlled substance. Participants must complete drug treatment and remain drug-free for the duration of the program4.
Prostitution and Trafficking Intervention Court
This program is for individuals charged with prostitution or related offenses. Participants must complete counseling and other services to address the underlying issues that led to their involvement in prostitution4.
Felony Deferred Prosecution Program
This program is for first-time offenders charged with certain felonies, such as retail theft or possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Participants must complete community service, pay restitution, and remain crime-free for the duration of the program4.
DuPage County Deferred Prosecution Program
In DuPage County, the State’s Attorney’s Office offers a Pre-Trial Diversion Program for first-time offenders charged with certain non-violent offenses. Participants must complete community service, pay restitution, and remain crime-free for the duration of the program2.
Kane County Deferred Prosecution Programs
In Kane County, the State’s Attorney’s Office offers several deferred prosecution programs, including:
Domestic Violence Deferred Prosecution Program
This program is for individuals charged with domestic violence offenses. Participants must complete counseling and other services to address the underlying issues that led to the offense5.
Prostitution/Solicitation Deferred Prosecution Program
This program is for individuals charged with prostitution or solicitation. Participants must complete counseling and other services to address the underlying issues that led to their involvement in prostitution5.
Conclusion
If you are facing criminal charges in Chicago or the surrounding areas, a deferred prosecution program may be an option for you. At Spodek Law Group, our experienced criminal defense attorneys can help you determine if you are eligible and guide you through the process.
