Diversion

Service Description

The JAC offers diversion to first time non-violent youth as an alternative to formal prosecution and further involvement in the juvenile justice system through the provision of comprehensive assessments and timely interventions tailored to meet their unique needs.  To ensure a positive outcome for youth, a ninety day success plan is developed, and upon completion of diversion, youth avoid formal prosecution and the trauma and stigmatization associated with engagement in the judicial process.
 

Service Goal

The goal of diversion is to build competencies designed to avert future (harmful/risky) behaviors that may result in formalized prosecution.
 

Referral Criteria

Generally, diversion serves first time non-violent offending youth with no prior adjudications whereby prosecution is deferred by the Juvenile Officer and the case is referred to the Case Assessment Unit (CAU) for processing.  The CAU will assess and determine if the case is appropriate for diversion.
 

Benefits

Diversion provides services to youth ages 17 and under experiencing the following risk factors.  This list is non-exhaustive and other risk factors may apply.  Please contact the JAC by calling the number listed below for assistance.

• trauma
• conflict/anger and behavioral issues
• mental health challenges
• curfew violations
• truancy/poor academic performance
• delinquency
• family dysfunction/parenting issues
• substance abuse
• domestic violence
• suicide risk
• homelessness
   

Access to Services

Referrals are received through the following sources:

• Legal Services Department - Case Assessment Unit

Who is Eligible?

• Youth ages 17 and under who are first time non-violent offenders with no prior adjudications that are under the jurisdiction of the 16th Circuit Court.
• Youth ages 17 and under with status offenses and/or delinquent offenses that have been diverted from prosecution.

Hours of Operation