What is ARD?

ARD is an acronym for a diversion program known as Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition. ARD allows first-time, non-violent offenders to avoid a conviction and the uncertainty of trial. Most DUI offenses, and many other criminal offenses, qualify as non-violent and sometimes can be resolved with ARD. ARD suspends the case while you serve a period of probation, attend educational classes, abstain from alcohol, pay fees to the Court, and, in DUI cases, lose your driver’s license for a period of time. However, not everyone is eligible for the program, and even for those who are eligible, ARD might not be a better option than fighting the allegations.