Pinellas · Pasco · Hillsborough
Arrested for the First Time in Florida?
You may have options. For many first-time charges, diversion programs like PTI can help protect your record—depending on the circumstances.
Scared, embarrassed, and unsure what happens next? That’s normal. Talk to an attorney today and get a clear, judgment-free plan to protect your future.
- Whether you may qualify for PTI or diversion
- What to say—and what not to say—right now
- How to protect your record and your future
- First-Offense Focused
- Same-Day Consults
- Former Prosecutor's Insight
The First Days
What Happens After a First Arrest
If you’ve never been through this before, the process can feel overwhelming. Here’s a plain-language look at what typically comes next—and why timing matters.
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Booking & release
You may be released on bond or your own recognizance. Conditions can apply, and missing one can create new problems.
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First appearance & arraignment
Early court dates set the schedule for your case—and some deadlines that affect your options arrive quickly.
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The window to act
The first days often shape what comes next. Getting advice early helps protect options like diversion before they narrow.
Diversion Programs
Understanding Pre-Trial Intervention
PTI is a supervised diversion program offered to certain eligible defendants—often first-time offenders—as an alternative to traditional prosecution. You complete conditions such as supervision, classes, community service, or restitution, and if the program is completed successfully, the State may drop the charges.
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A path to avoid a conviction — completing the program may lead the State to drop the charges.
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Protecting your record — depending on the circumstances, sealing or expungement may be available afterward.
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Moving forward — the goal is to put this behind you without a conviction following you.
PTI is not automatic and is not right for every case. Eligibility and outcomes are decided by the State Attorney’s Office and the court, and depend on the facts of your case.
Why Timing Matters
Benefits of Early Representation
The choices made in the first days can shape everything that follows.
An attorney involved early can help you avoid statements that hurt your case, meet deadlines that protect your rights, and advocate for diversion eligibility before options narrow. The earlier we’re involved, the more we may be able to do—depending on the circumstances.
Often Considered
Common Charges Considered for Diversion
Many first-time, non-violent charges are commonly considered for PTI or other diversion programs. Eligibility always depends on the specific charge, your history, and the prosecutor’s discretion—this list is for general information, not a promise of eligibility.
- Petit theft / shoplifting
- Simple possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of marijuana / paraphernalia
- Simple battery (first-time, certain cases)
- Disorderly conduct
- Criminal mischief
- Worthless checks
- Certain first-time non-violent felonies
Facing a DUI? See our DUI defense page. Worried about your record after the case? Learn about record sealing & expungement.
Why Bernhardt Riley
Why Clients Call Bernhardt Riley
We focus on your future, not just the charge
We look at how an outcome could affect your job, your licenses, and your record—then build a plan around protecting them.
Former prosecutors
Our team understands how the other side evaluates first-offense cases and diversion eligibility.
Clear, judgment-free guidance
A first arrest is stressful. We explain your options in plain language so you can make confident decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI)?
PTI is a supervised diversion program offered to certain eligible defendants—often first-time offenders—as an alternative to traditional prosecution. If you complete the program’s conditions, the State may drop the charges, which can help you avoid a conviction.
Do I qualify for PTI or diversion?
Eligibility depends on the charge, your prior history, and the prosecutor’s discretion. Many first-time offenders facing non-violent charges may qualify, but admission is not automatic. We can review whether you may be eligible.
Will a first offense stay off my record?
In some cases, yes. Successfully completing a diversion program such as PTI may help eligible first-time offenders avoid a conviction, and sealing or expungement may be available afterward depending on the circumstances.
Should I talk to the police?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. What you say early can matter a great deal, so it is generally wise to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. We can explain how this applies to your case.
Will I go to jail for a first offense?
No attorney can promise a result, but for many first-time, non-violent charges there may be alternatives to incarceration depending on the circumstances. We will explain the realistic risks for your specific charge.
How soon should I call?
As soon as possible. Some deadlines that affect your options arrive within days of an arrest. We offer free, same-day consultations by phone or video.
First Arrest? Talk to an Attorney Today.
Free, same-day consult. Call 24/7. Confidential and judgment-free.
No promises of outcomes—just clear answers about your options.