Tulsa County offers several criminal diversion programs that aim to rehabilitate rather than punish, meaning a conviction isn’t the only option for those convicted of a crime. These programs address the root causes of criminal behavior, such as addiction, mental illness, or youthful mistakes, while helping eligible defendants avoid jail time and a permanent criminal record.
What Is a Diversion Program?
A diversion program is an alternative to traditional prosecution. Instead of going through a full criminal trial and possibly receiving a conviction, eligible defendants enter a structured program that may involve supervision, treatment, education, or community service. Upon successful completion, the charges may be reduced or dismissed altogether.
However, diversion is not automatic—it’s a voluntary opportunity that typically requires the agreement of the prosecutor, and sometimes the judge. The main goal is to reduce recidivism and give individuals a second chance.
Types of Diversion Programs in Tulsa County
Tulsa County offers a range of diversion programs tailored to different charges and circumstances, with some common programs being:
1. DA Supervision Program
The District Attorney’s Office operates a supervision-based diversion program for low-level, non-violent offenses. Participants agree to terms such as regular check-ins, restitution, staying employed, and remaining arrest-free during the supervision period.
2. Drug Court
Tulsa’s Drug Court is a more intensive program for individuals facing felony drug charges and focuses on addiction recovery, offering treatment and supervision instead of incarceration. Participants must complete substance abuse treatment, attend court hearings, and submit to random drug testing. If completed successfully, felony charges may be dismissed.
3. Mental Health Court
For defendants with diagnosed mental health conditions, Mental Health Court offers tailored treatment and oversight. The goal is to stabilize participants and prevent future legal problems related to untreated mental illness.
4. Juvenile Diversion
For minors, Tulsa County offers juvenile diversion programs that provide counseling, education, and restorative justice opportunities. These programs aim to keep young people out of the formal juvenile justice system while addressing the behavior that led to the arrest.
Who Qualifies for Diversion in Tulsa?
Eligibility depends on several factors:
- Nature of the offense: Most diversion programs are limited to non-violent, first-time offenses.
- Criminal history: Individuals with prior convictions or open cases may be ineligible, though some programs allow minor past offenses.
- Willingness to comply: Participants must voluntarily agree to the program’s conditions and demonstrate a willingness to complete them.
- Approval by the DA or court: Prosecutors usually make the final decision, often with input from defense counsel and program staff.
Your attorney can advocate for your inclusion in a diversion program and help you navigate the application process.
What Happens If You Complete the Program?
Successfully completing criminal diversion programs often results in:
- Dismissal of charges
- No conviction on your record
- Eligibility for expungement in the future
Failure to complete the program, however, may result in reinstatement of criminal charges and a return to traditional prosecution.
Tulsa Criminal Attorneys
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Tulsa, you may have more options than you realize. A qualified Tulsa criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case and determine whether you’re eligible for a diversion program. The sooner you act, the better your chances of securing an alternative to conviction.
To learn more about your eligibility and how we can help you pursue a successful resolution through diversion, call our team at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm at (918) 416-0358 or contact us online for a consultation with an attorney.