Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is New Jersey’s primary diversionary program for defendants charged with indictable (felony-level) offenses. If you are accepted into PTI, you enter a supervised program — typically lasting one to three years — and if you successfully complete it, the charges against you are dismissed. No conviction. No criminal record for that offense.
For first-time defendants facing serious charges, PTI is often the single most important opportunity available. Understanding how it works — and how to maximize your chances of being accepted — is essential.
What Is PTI?
PTI is governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:43-12 and the New Jersey Court Rules. It is administered by the Criminal Division Manager’s office in each Superior Court county. The program is intended for defendants who are unlikely to reoffend and who can benefit from supervision and rehabilitative services rather than prosecution and punishment.
PTI is not a guilty plea. You do not admit guilt to enter the program. If you successfully complete PTI, the prosecutor dismisses the charges and the record of arrest may be expunged after a waiting period.
Who Is Eligible for PTI?
PTI is available to defendants charged with indictable offenses (third and fourth degree crimes, and some second degree crimes). General eligibility guidelines include:
- No prior criminal convictions
- No prior PTI enrollment
- The offense is not a first or second degree crime barred by statute (e.g., murder, sexual assault of a minor, certain drug distribution charges)
- The defendant is a resident of New Jersey or the offense occurred in New Jersey
Certain offenses carry a presumption against PTI admission — particularly second degree crimes and offenses involving organized crime, public officials, or crimes against children. However, a presumption against admission is not an absolute bar. A well-crafted PTI application supported by strong documentation and a persuasive attorney argument can overcome a presumption against admission in appropriate cases.
The PTI Application Process
The PTI process in New Jersey involves two separate decisions: the recommendation of the Criminal Division Manager (CDM) and the consent (or objection) of the prosecutor. Both must approve your admission.
The application typically includes:
- A personal statement explaining your background, the circumstances of the offense, and why you are a good candidate for PTI
- Letters of reference from employers, family members, teachers, religious leaders, or community members
- Documentation of employment, education, community ties, and any rehabilitative steps already taken (counseling, substance abuse treatment, etc.)
- A criminal background check
After reviewing the application, the CDM issues a written recommendation. The prosecutor then either consents or objects. If the prosecutor objects, you can appeal the rejection to the Superior Court judge assigned to your case.
What Happens During PTI?
PTI typically lasts 1 to 3 years. Conditions vary based on the nature of the offense and the individual’s circumstances, but typically include:
- Regular check-ins with a PTI supervisor
- Drug and alcohol testing (if applicable)
- Payment of restitution to any victims
- Community service
- Counseling or substance abuse treatment (if applicable)
- Maintaining lawful employment
- No new criminal charges
If you violate the conditions of PTI, the program can be terminated and you can be returned to the criminal process to face the original charges.
What Happens After Successful Completion?
When you successfully complete PTI, the prosecutor dismisses the charges. The dismissal does not automatically seal or expunge the arrest record — but after a waiting period (typically 6 months from completion), you may apply to have the arrest record expunged. Once expunged, you can lawfully answer “no” on most job, housing, and licensing applications that ask whether you have been convicted or arrested.
PTI in Hunterdon County
PTI applications for Hunterdon County defendants are processed through the Hunterdon County Criminal Division Manager’s office at the Hunterdon County Superior Court, 65 Park Avenue, Flemington, NJ. The Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office reviews PTI applications and makes the consent decision.
Jenna Casper Bloom has experience guiding clients through the PTI application process in Hunterdon County and surrounding counties. A strong PTI application — with the right documentation, framing, and legal argument — can make the difference between acceptance and rejection. If the prosecutor objects, Jenna can appeal the decision before the assigned judge.
Contact Casper Bloom Law for a free consultation about PTI eligibility and your application.
