Legal Definitions - diversion program

A diversion program is a program that refers certain criminal defendants before trial to community programs on job training, education, and other services. If the defendant successfully completes the program, the charges against them may be dismissed. This is also known as pretrial diversion or pretrial intervention.

For example, a person who is charged with drug possession may be referred to a diversion program that includes drug education classes and community service. If they complete the program successfully, the charges against them may be dropped.

Diversion programs can also be used to prevent court intervention in matters of child neglect, minor juvenile delinquency, truancy, or incorrigibility. These programs provide services quickly and in a nonadversarial manner, so there is no need for a formal court trial.

Overall, diversion programs aim to provide an alternative to traditional criminal justice processes and help individuals address the underlying issues that led to their involvement in the criminal justice system.