Dallas County Pretrial Diversion Program: A Second Chance to Clear Your Record

A Path Toward Dismissal and a Clean Record

If you've been arrested in Dallas County and it's your first offense, you may have an option that avoids a conviction altogether — the Dallas County Pretrial Diversion Program (PTD).

At Texas Defenders, we help clients every week get into this program and protect their future from a permanent criminal record. This is a second-chance opportunity designed for people who made a mistake but are ready to make it right.

The program focuses on rehabilitation instead of punishment, providing education, counseling, and treatment so participants can move forward without the burden of a criminal conviction.

What Is the Dallas County Pretrial Diversion Program?

The Pretrial Diversion Program allows eligible individuals to be diverted out of the criminal court process and into a supervised reform program.

Instead of proceeding toward trial or a plea deal, participants complete specific conditions — like counseling, community service, drug treatment, or classes — under the supervision of the Dallas County Criminal Justice Department.

Once the program is successfully completed:

• Your case is dismissed, and

• You can apply for expungement to completely erase the record of the arrest and case from public view.

Because PTD is a “predisposition” program, it takes place before you are found guilty or enter a plea. If you don't complete the program, your case returns to the normal court process.

Who Qualifies for Pretrial Diversion in Dallas County?

Eligibility for the Dallas County PTD program depends on several factors. Generally, you may qualify if you:

• Are a first-time offender with no prior convictions.

• Are charged with a non-violent misdemeanor or low-level felony offense (such as drug possession, theft, or criminal mischief).

• Are willing to accept responsibility for your actions.

• Are approved at the discretion of the Dallas County District Attorney's Office.

• Agree to comply with all program requirements, which may include:

  • Substance abuse or mental health treatment

  • Counseling and education classes

  • Restitution and community service

  • Regular check-ins or drug testing

Our Dallas criminal defense attorneys at Texas Defenders will evaluate your case, prepare your application, and work directly with prosecutors to maximize your chance of acceptance.

Why Consider Pretrial Diversion?

For eligible defendants, completing the program has major benefits:

✅ Avoids a conviction
✅ Leads to dismissal of your criminal case
✅ Allows for expungement (permanent removal of the arrest from your record)
✅ Restores eligibility for jobs, housing, and education
✅ Provides access to rehabilitative resources and life-skills training

This program can be especially important for students, professionals, or anyone with career licensing concerns — including teachers, nurses, or government employees.

Dallas County Diversion Options

Dallas County offers several specialized diversion programs, including:

AIM (Achieve, Inspire, Motivate) Program

For defendants ages 18–24 charged with non-violent felony offenses such as possession of marijuana or shoplifting. Successful completion results in dismissal and expungement eligibility.

DIVERT Court

The Dallas Initiative for Diversion and Expedited Rehabilitation and Treatment helps adult first-time drug offenders. It's a structured program emphasizing recovery and accountability.

Veterans Court

Designed for U.S. military veterans facing criminal charges, including certain DWIs. The program provides counseling and treatment under judicial supervision.

Misdemeanor Memorandum Agreements

In some misdemeanor cases — such as Class C theft or possession of drug paraphernalia — prosecutors may dismiss charges once the defendant completes specific conditions (like restitution or an educational class).

Each program has strict deadlines, typically within 60–90 days after a case is filed. Missing that window can mean losing eligibility.

Does Pretrial Diversion Show Up on a Background Check?

Participation in a diversion program can appear on a background check until an expungement is filed. While your case will be dismissed upon completion, the original arrest remains public record unless you or your attorney take the next step to expunge the case.

Our firm handles that entire process — from preparing the expungement petition to ensuring your record is cleared from law enforcement databases and background check systems.

Why You Need a Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyer

The Pretrial Diversion Program can be life-changing — but it's not automatic. You must be accepted, complete all conditions, and properly file for expungement afterward.

At Texas Defenders, we help you:

• Determine eligibility for the program

• Prepare your application and supporting documents

• Communicate with prosecutors and program officials

• Guide you through successful completion

• File for expungement to clear your record

Get a Second Chance with Texas Defenders

If you've been arrested for a non-violent first-time offense in Dallas County, contact Texas Defenders immediately to explore pretrial diversion options. These programs are limited and time-sensitive, and early legal representation can make the difference between dismissal and conviction.

📞 Call 214-306-9696 today for a free consultation with a Dallas County criminal defense lawyer.
We'll help you protect your future and keep your record clean.