Tulsa County recently introduced its First Offense DUI Program (FODP), an alternative court program available to certain first-time felony DUI defendants. For those eligible, the program gives an opportunity to reduce a felony DUI charge and potentially obtain a dismissal after successful completion.
Alternative court programs are designed to provide structure, supervision, treatment, and accountability while allowing participants an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system path. Here’s what you need to know about the First Offense DUI Program, who may qualify, and what successful completion could mean for your case.
What Is the First Offense DUI Program?
The First Offense DUI Program (FODP) is a Tulsa County Alternative Court Program designed for certain first-time felony DUI defendants.
According to material published by the Tulsa County Alternative Court Programs, the program consists of a nine-month participation period followed by a deferred period. Successful completion of the program may result in the felony DUI charge being reduced to a misdemeanor, and after the deferred period, the case may ultimately be dismissed.
Applications for the program are submitted through the Tulsa County Alternative Court Programs (TCACP) office in the Tulsa County courthouse.
Who May Be Eligible?
Eligibility is determined case-by-case.
The First Offense DUI Program is made available to adults charged with their first felony DUI who are determined to be low-risk and low-need following a TCACP assessment and investigation. There are no age restrictions listed for participation.
Meeting these basic eligibility requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program - some applicants may have to complete additional evaluations, screenings, or other mandated requirements.
What Are the Requirements?
The program is designed to provide both accountability and treatment. Program participants are required to follow several program conditions and requirements throughout their participation to stay in compliance with the program.
Program requirements may include completion of ADSAC, drug testing, use of an ignition interlock device, use of a portable breathalyzer during the first 60 days of program participation, and monthly court appearances. Additional requirements may apply depending on the participant’s individual case and circumstances.
What Are Tulsa County Alternative Court Programs?
Tulsa County offers several alternative court programs that are meant to address the underlying issues of criminal behavior with the intention of reducing repeat offenses. These programs emphasize connecting clients with resources, treatment, accountability, supervision, and long-term rehabilitation rather than punishment and prison time alone.
Tulsa County offers Drug and DUI Court, Mental Health Court, Veterans Treatment Court, and other diversion-style programs. While they each have their own unique elements and eligibility requirements, they are all generally meant to provide qualified participants with an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system path.
Why Early Representation Matters
Many people wait until later stages to seek out legal representation, but early representation can make a significant impact when evaluating eligibility for court programs like the First Offense DUI Program.
An experienced DUI attorney can help you determine if you may qualify for an alternative court program, guide you through the application process, and evaluate other options that may be available in your case. The earlier an attorney is involved, the more opportunities there may be to position yourself for the best possible outcome.
First Offense DUI Program FAQs
The Bottom Line
Tulsa County’s First Offense DUI Program may provide certain first-time felony DUI defendants with an opportunity to reduce a felony DUI charge and potentially obtain a dismissal after successful completion. However, eligibility is limited and participation requires complete compliance with the program requirements.
Speaking with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible can help you understand if programs like FODP may be available and what options may protect your future. If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, contact us today for a free consultation.