⚖️ Deferred Prosecution in Palm Beach County
If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor in Palm Beach County, you may qualify for a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA)—a powerful option that can help you avoid a criminal conviction altogether.
Instead of going through the court system, you complete certain requirements, and the State Attorney’s Office agrees to dismiss your charges.
At Michael White, P.A., we help eligible clients in Palm Beach County enter these programs and keep their records clean.
📍 What Is a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA)?
A Deferred Prosecution Agreement (sometimes called a misdemeanor diversion program) allows certain low-level offenders to resolve their case without a conviction. If accepted into the program, you’ll complete requirements related to your specific offense—after which the charges are dropped.
Examples of conditions include:
- Community service
- Drug or alcohol evaluation and testing (for drug-related offenses)
- Theft awareness or anti-theft courses (for shoplifting or petit theft)
- Restitution (if applicable)
🎯 If you complete the program successfully, the State Attorney’s Office for the 15th Judicial Circuit will dismiss the charges against you.
✅ Who Is Eligible for Deferred Prosecution in Palm Beach County?
Eligibility is determined at or before arraignment and typically includes:
- First-time or non-violent misdemeanor offenders
- No prior criminal record or significant history
- Willingness to accept full responsibility and complete all conditions
🧑⚖️ What Happens If You’re Not Eligible?
If you don’t qualify for the deferred prosecution program, don’t panic. An experienced defense lawyer can still:
- Negotiate for a reduced charge
- Challenge the evidence or legality of the arrest
- Seek other diversion options or plea deals
- Prepare for trial if necessary
📞 That’s why you should speak with a defense attorney as early as possible—preferably before your arraignment, when DPA eligibility is evaluated.
🔒 What About Felony Charges?
While misdemeanor diversion programs are handled at the local level, felony-level Pretrial Intervention (PTI) programs are regulated by the State of Florida.
💡 For more information, visit:
🔗 Florida Department of Corrections – Pretrial Intervention (PTI)
These programs are generally available only to first-time felony offenders and come with stricter eligibility requirements and longer supervision periods.
📞 Get Help from a Palm Beach County Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’ve been arrested in Palm Beach County, don’t risk your future by going it alone. Michael White, P.A. will assess your eligibility for a Deferred Prosecution Agreement, negotiate with the State Attorney’s Office, and fight to protect your record—whether through diversion or aggressive defense.
📲 Call (954) 710-0925 today for a free, in-depth consultation and let’s explore every opportunity to keep your record clean.
💬 FAQs: Deferred Prosecution in Palm Beach County
Q: Will a Deferred Prosecution Agreement show up on my record?
A: Not if you successfully complete the program. Charges are dismissed, and you may later qualify to have your record sealed.
Q: What happens if I fail to complete the program?
A: Your case will be reopened and sent back to the court for prosecution. You’ll need to defend the charges as if the diversion never occurred.
Q: Can I get a deferred prosecution for a felony in Palm Beach County?
A: Possibly, through Florida’s Pretrial Intervention (PTI) program, but eligibility is stricter and requires approval from the State.
