A DUI conviction in Oregon comes with a heavy cost. You face serious penalties, including high fines, loss of your driver’s license and potential jail time.
If you are an immigrant, you may also worry that a DUI conviction will affect your ability to remain in the country.
Oregon has a diversion program for residents who are charged with a DUI. There are requirements to qualify for this program; however, if you qualify and successfully complete the program, your DUI charge could be dismissed.
Qualifying for the program
You qualify for the diversion program if you attend court on the date of your first scheduled appearance on the DUI charge and file your petition and agreement within 30 days of this date.
You must also sign a declaration of eligibility confirming that you have no prior felony DUI conviction, meet other criminal history requirements and are not participating in any other DUI diversion program.
Goals of the program
Qualifying for the program gives you a great opportunity to have the DUI charge dismissed. However, there are many program steps and goals you must complete.
Some of these include:
- Completing an alcohol and drug assessment
- Completing a treatment program
- Paying fees and restitution
- Attending a victim impact panel
You cannot consume any alcohol or drug, including marijuana, while you are participating in the diversion program. You must install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle and keep it on until the program is complete.
One minor, but easy to overlook, requirement is keeping the court updated with your current address and contact information.
Helping you meet your goals
While these steps may seem simple, missing one or completing one incorrectly could result in you being thrown out of the diversion program. This is something you want to avoid at all costs.
While there are potential defenses to a DUI charge, the diversion program is an option you should consider. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine if you qualify, help you apply and guide you through the program until completion.