What is a Pre-Trial Diversion Program in Minnesota?

December 30, 2013  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

Hennepin County and Anoka County will sometimes offer a “pre-trial diversion program” to offenders who meet certain requirements. These diversions can take a number of different forms.
For example, defendants could be asked to attend counseling or treatment programs. They may be asked to write apology letters or essays. Or they may be asked to do community service.
Usually these programs are offered to non-violent, first-time offenders who are being accused of a very specific list of crimes. They are considered to be quite successful at preventing repeat offenses.
If you meet the requirements for a pre-trial diversion program your charges will be dropped as soon as you complete the program. This is one way to avoid a criminal record, jail time, and other consequences that come along with being convicted of a crime.
You need to speak to a qualified attorney to see if you or the charges you are facing make you eligible for one of these programs. You need to do this before making a plea, since making any plea, including “not guilty,” can render you ineligible for a pre-trial diversion.
If you are ineligible for a pre-trial diversion then your attorney can advise you on your next best course of action. It is very important to consult an attorney the minute you feel you are in danger of being charged with a crime.
If you need a criminal attorney, call BGS. We’ve been helping people in the Minneapolis area face down criminal charges for decades, and we can defend you against your charges, too.