DUII Diversion — An Option for First Time Offenders
DUII Diversion is a program created by the State of Oregon to decrease the court workload, and provide for immediate drug and alcohol treatment for those who qualify. The goal is to reduce repeat drunk driving offenses.
At Mark C. Cogan, P.C., we have criminal defense experience that will help you determine if diversion is a good option for you, and help you enroll in this program if you qualify. A DUII diversion may be the pathway to keep your record clean and result in a dismissal of DUII charges.
"Mark, Thank you for your letter and the report. I appreciate everything that you have done on my behalf. You have delivered on every promise and spared me numerous pointless appointments in the halls of the courthouse. Once again, Thank you." — KS, Portland, OR
Facts About Oregon DUII Diversion
Diversion can be a good option for first time offenders, but not everyone is eligible for entry into the DUII diversion program. You are not eligible for DUII diversion if:
- You have a DUII conviction within the last 15 years in any state.
- You have already gone through a DUII diversion within the past 15 years in any state.
- You injured someone in an accident as part of your DUII charge.
- You currently hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
If you choose to enter a DUII diversion program, you must:
- File the paperwork with the court within 30 days of your arraignment.
- Filet a plea of guilty or "no contest", which will take effect in the event that you fail to complete the program.
- Pay certain fees to the court and be evaluated to determine the extent of your alcohol problem.
- Complete alcohol treatment as required and attend a victim's impact panel.
Other criminal charges (reckless driving, driving while suspended, traffic violations) are not necessarily dismissed as a result of participation in DUII diversion. However, an experienced DUII attorney can use a client's successful completion of a diversion program as a negotiation tool in the client's other criminal proceedings.
The Prosecution Has Begun Its Work — We Should Begin Ours
No matter the circumstances, anyone under investigation or facing criminal prosecution should retain the best possible attorney as early in the process as possible. If you have been charged with a DUII, please call our Portland law office at 503-827-8092 or send us an e-mail for a free initial consultation with our lawyer.
