Criminal Defense
Since 1993
Since 1993
A Guide to the Orange & Osceola County First-Time DUI Diversion Program
For those facing a first-time DUI charge in Orange County or Osceola County, there is an excellent diversion program available that offers a path to a complete dismissal of your case.
This program, often called Pretrial Intervention (PTI), is different and, frankly, better than the programs in many other counties. My name is John Guidry, and having guided clients into this specific program for years, I want to break down how it works.
Facing Your First DUI in Orange or Osceola County? This local program is your best path to a full dismissal of the charge. Call my office to see if you qualify and to get the process started. Call John Guidry: (407) 423-1117
The Two Levels of DUI Diversion
The program is divided into two levels, or “tiers,” based on the specific facts of your DUI arrest.
Level 1: For Breath/Blood Results Under 0.15
This is the less expensive and less restrictive tier. It is for all first-time DUI cases where the driver’s breath or blood alcohol level (BAL) was below a 0.15.
- Program Costs: A $600 program fee plus a $500 donation to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
- Conditions: You must complete DUI School, a Victim Awareness Program (like the MADD panel), and approximately 50 to 75 hours of community service.
Level 2: For Breath/Blood Results 0.15 or Higher, or a Refusal
This is the more intensive tier for cases involving a higher BAL or for anyone who refused to provide a breath, blood, or urine sample.
- Program Costs: A $750 program fee plus a $1,000 donation to MADD.
- Conditions: You must complete all the same classes and community service as Level 1, but with one major addition: you are required to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your vehicle for six months. This is the device you must blow into to start your car. If it detects alcohol, your car will not start, and the system will report the violation.
Important: The Terms are Non-Negotiable
It is critical to understand that the conditions for each level are set in stone. You cannot negotiate with the prosecutor to, for example, pay the higher Level 2 donation but avoid the Ignition Interlock Device. As the old saying goes, “don’t kick a gift horse in the mouth.” You don’t have to accept the diversion offer, but if you do, you are accepting all the terms that come with it.
While the requirements are strict, the opportunity to have a DUI charge completely dismissed from your record is an incredible outcome. If you are facing your first DUI in Orange or Osceola County, call my office. Let’s talk about getting you into this program.
About the Author, John Guidry II
John Guidry II is a seasoned criminal defense attorney and founder of the Law Firm of John P. Guidry II, P.A., located in downtown Orlando next to the Orange County Courthouse, where he has practiced for over 30 years. With more than three decades of experience defending clients throughout Central Florida since 1993, Guidry has successfully defended thousands of cases in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Brevard, Lake, and Volusia counties. He has built a reputation for his strategic approach to criminal defense, focusing on pretrial motions and case dismissals rather than jury trials.
Guidry earned both his Juris Doctorate and Master of Business Administration from St. Louis University in 1993. He is a member of the Florida Bar and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His practice encompasses the full spectrum of Florida state criminal charges, with a particular emphasis on achieving favorable outcomes through thorough pretrial preparation and motion practice.
Beyond the courtroom, Guidry is a prolific legal educator who has authored over 400 articles on criminal defense topics. He shares his legal expertise through his popular YouTube channel, Instagram, and TikTok accounts, where he has built a substantial following of people eager to learn about the law. His educational content breaks down complex legal concepts into accessible information for the general public.
When not practicing law, Guidry enjoys tennis and pickleball, and loves to travel. Drawing from his background as a former recording studio owner and music video producer in the Orlando area, he brings a creative perspective to his legal practice and continues to apply his passion for video production to his educational content.