Diversion and First Offender Options for a Criminal Charge

Diversion and first offender programs allow you to avoid a trial and possible conviction.

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People charged with relatively low-level crimes, particularly first offenders, may be able to avoid a trial or plea by using a diversion or first offender program.

Diversion and First Offender Programs

You may be able to avoid trial or pleading guilty if you qualify for programs designed to rehabilitate defendants without saddling them with a conviction.

Diversion Programs
Diversion and first offender programs give some defendants a way to manage the charges against them without going to trial or pleading guilty.
First Offender Programs
A first offender program gives you a chance to avoid the risk of a trial or the consequences of a plea.

Questions About First Offender and Diversion Programs

Defendants facing charges for the first time typically have these issues in mind.

How can I arrange for diversion if I'm charged with a crime?
If you qualify, your attorney should bring the subject up--but it doesn't hurt to raise it yourself.
Can I appeal a judge's refusal to grant diversion?
An appeal is a long shot.