Diversion

What Is Diversion?


Many juveniles referred to Juvenile Court are second- or third-time offenders who commit offenses such as shoplifting, malicious mischief or possession of alcohol. These youth may be eligible for an alternative to formal court processing known as diversion.
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The Diversion Unit screens youth by seriousness of offense, age, and prior history, and then schedules youth an appropriate group seminar/class (group advisement), Community Accountability Board (CAB) or individual appointment.

Assuming Responsibility


By appearing at the diversion meeting, the youth is able to take responsibility for his or her actions without obtaining a criminal record. After participating in diversion, the youth may truthfully say that they have not been convicted of a crime.

If the youth does not want to participate in diversion, the juvenile has the right to speak with an attorney prior to accepting diversion or having the case referred back to the prosecutor for filing of charges.