New Diversion Program for First Offenders in Tarrant County

Published on October 26, 2020 by Carreras Law

Deferred Prosecution Initiative in Fort Worth Texas

Deferred Prosecution Initiative (DPI) is deferred prosecution for first-time offenders. This program is specifically designed for those individuals over the age of 25 with no criminal history.

You must speak with an attorney experienced in handling Fort Worth criminal cases to find out your eligibility.

It’s important to get in contact with the lawyer as soon as possible because the deadline for entering into this program is 90 days from the date your case is filed with no exceptions.

What to Expect in the DPI Program

During the program, a participant will have to provide three drug follicle tests. If you live in Tarrant County that will be through the probation department in Tarrant County. The program is still open and available to those who do not reside in Tarrant county, but those individuals are still required to provide hair follicle sample tests from a reputable laboratory where they reside.

The first hair follicle test does not have to be clean. The second hair follicle test must be substantially lower or clean. The third test must be clean.

Program Costs

The cost of the program is $300.

Certain participants will be required to take drug and or alcohol classes.

This program is set to launch November 1, 2020 and cases filed prior to November 1, 2020 will be considered through January 8, 2020.

In addition to the $300 fee, they will have to pay restitution for lab fees.

Deferred Prosecution Initiative Eligible Offenses

Eligible offenses include:

Possession of Marijuana under 2 Ounces
Possession of Marijuana under 4 Ounces
Possession of Dangerous Drug
(Most all misdemeanor drug cases should be eligible.)
Felony Cases
PG2 THC cases up to 400 grams
Certain PG1 cases under 1 gram

Limits to Rights for Expunction

As part of the program, clients will agree to a limited expunction right. The Tarrant county district attorney’s office will maintain record of the name and date of birth of the individuals who completed their dpi program. The office will maintain these records for five years after the completion of the dpi program.

This program is available for people who are out of state and requires no reporting.

Call Kara Carreras, an experienced Fort Worth Criminal Defense lawyer to help guide you through the process.

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