Gadsden Pretrial Diversion Program: A Complete Guide

Avoid a DUI Conviction & Focus on Rehabilitation

The Gadsden Pretrial Diversion Program allows individuals charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) to avoid traditional prosecution by completing a structured program focused on rehabilitation, personal responsibility, and accountability. Successful completion may result in charges being reduced or dismissed, helping participants move forward without a permanent criminal record.

✅ Benefits of the Program

Avoid a Criminal Record – Successful completion may lead to your DUI charges being dropped or reduced, keeping your record clean.

Rehabilitation & Personal Growth – The program focuses on self-improvement, substance abuse education, and responsible decision-making.

Cost Savings – While there are fees, the long-term financial impact of a DUI conviction (including fines, increased insurance rates, and possible job loss) is often much higher.

📋 Step 1: Apply for the Pretrial Diversion Program

To begin, you must submit an application for the program.

📄 Pretrial Diversion Application – City of Gadsden

🎥 Step 2: Watch This Video Before Proceeding

📌 Watching this video will help you better understand the program and its requirements.

📑 Step 3: Complete Initial Responsibilities

Report to the Court Referral Office (CRO) within 7 days.
Pay the required fees (see below for a breakdown).
Attend all scheduled review court dates.

Failure to meet these deadlines could result in removal from the program.

📍 Court Referral Office (CRO) Contact Information:

  • Phone: (256) 549-5352

  • Address: 1000 Forrest Ave, Gadsden, AL 35901

🔎 Step 4: CRO Assessment & Monitoring

Assessment at CRO

  • You must undergo an evaluation at the Court Referral Office (CRO).

  • This determines your level of supervision (Level I, II, or III) based on factors like substance use history and risk level.

Program Duration & Monitoring

  • Depending on the CRO assessment, you may be subject to:

    • Monthly check-ins

    • Random drug testing through the color code system

  • The program typically lasts between 3 to 12 months.

💵 Step 5: Financial Obligations

1️⃣ Pretrial Diversion Program Fees

  • $1,100 total

    • $100 application fee

    • $1,000 program fee

  • Court Costs: $485

2️⃣ Driver’s License Reinstatement Fees

  • $275 (for DUI-related license suspension reinstatement).

3️⃣ CRO Monitoring Fees

  • Monthly Fee: $30

  • Drug Test Costs:

    • $25/month (without color code monitoring)

    • $50/month (if placed on color code monitoring)

  • Late Fees: Additional fees may apply for missed payments.

📌 Note: These fees must be paid in full for successful program completion.

📅 Step 6: Attend All Required Review Court Dates

Mandatory Court Appearances

  • You are required to attend all review court dates set by the judge.

  • These hearings are used to monitor your progress, compliance, and payments.

Failure to Appear Consequences

  • If you miss a court date, a Failure to Appear (FTA) warrant may be issued for your arrest.

⚖️ Step 7: Complete the Program & Final Court Decision

Successfully complete all requirements, payments, and monitoring.
The court will review your case and determine if your charges will be dismissed or reduced.

🎉 If all conditions are met, your DUI charge may be dropped, and you can move forward with a clean record!

📍 Contact Information

📞 Etowah County Court Referral Office (CRO):

  • Phone: (256) 549-5352

  • Address: 1000 Forrest Ave, Gadsden, AL 35901

📌 Have Questions? Call the Court Referral Office (CRO) at (256) 549-5352 for more details.

Why This Program Matters

The Gadsden Pretrial Diversion Program provides a second chance for individuals charged with DUI. By completing the required steps, participants:

Avoid a permanent criminal record
Gain access to rehabilitation and education
Reduce financial burdens compared to a DUI conviction

By staying committed, responsible, and engaged, you can successfully complete the program and move forward with a clean slate.

📌 Need Assistance? Contact us at (256) 547-1005, text us at 256-399-9466, or email samueldanibone@gmail.com for more information.