Diversion Court System In Pennsylvania
For a number of years now, Pennsylvania has been on the cutting edge of alternative programs for people accused of crimes. According to the Office of the District Attorney’s website:
Since 2012, the Diversion Courts Unit has helped thousands of individuals charged with a crime avoid convictions and collateral consequences that may result from their arrest. The unit is tasked with identifying cases where offenders can be held accountable for their actions through participation in nontrial programming focused on preventing future criminal justice involvement.
At Thompson Law, we have a thorough knowledge of the various diversion programs available and the processes involved. We can help you through the system to reduce penalties and help you get the resources you need to avoid committing these crimes in the future. Attorney William D. Thompson is a strong advocate who has built his 15-year legal practice on deep respect for and commitment to the people he serves.
Some Diversion Options
We can help you through Pennsylvania diversion programs that include:
- Drug rehabilitation court programs: There are two main court programs available for nonviolent, first-time offenders of Pennsylvania drug laws: Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD) and Drug Treatment Court. We can help you determine the best process for you and help you through the system to get you the best results possible.
- Juvenile rehabilitation court program: In general, rehabilitation and helping juveniles avoid repeat offenses are more important than punishment in the Pennsylvania juvenile justice system. We can help you work with the juvenile courts to get your child appropriate help and avoid excessive penalties.
- Mental health rehabilitation court program: There is a mental health competency court for misdemeanors and a mental health court for nonviolent felonies.
- Veterans court program: The veterans court program provides resources and treatment for eligible veterans charged generally with nonviolent crimes.
These are a few of the most important diversion programs offered in Pennsylvania. With thorough knowledge of the entire criminal justice system in the commonwealth, attorney William D. Thompson can help you identify the best approach for your case. If there is a way to keep you out of prison, we will find it.
Contact An Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Do not wait. There might be diversion programs or other alternatives to incarceration available to you. We can help you find the right solution. Call us at 570-846-2819 or email us to schedule your free initial consultation.