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ATTORNEY CARL JORDAN - MICHIGAN CRIMINAL DEFENSE BLOG

AVOIDING A CRIMINAL CONVICTION THROUGH A DIVERSION PROGRAM

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Diversion programs are a way for defendants/offenders to avoid a conviction. The programs are focused on first-time offenders charged with non-violent misdemeanors or low-level felonies.
Avoiding Criminal Conviction Through a Diversion Program
When you are facing criminal charges, the stakes are high. A conviction can result in an inability to live your best life by limiting career options which impacts your earnings potential. A conviction can also impact mundane parts of life such as making it difficult to rent apartments. Diversion programs give you a chance to resolve a criminal case with few consequences and the opportunity not to have a criminal record when the case concludes. The programs are focused on first-time offenders charged with non-violent misdemeanors or low-level felonies.

DIVERSION PROGRAMS OFTEN COME WITH HEAVY PROBATION REQUIREMENTS. HOWEVER, WHEN THE ALTERNATIVE IS A CRIMINAL CONVICTION, THE POSITIVES GREATLY OUTWEIGH THE NEGATIVES.


MICHIGAN DIVERSION PROGRAMS
The State of Michigan offers diversion programs that allow certain offenders to keep a criminal conviction off their public record. While the conditions of diversion programs vary from court to court, generally, all diversions include fines/costs, probation and community service. There are no diversion programs for most traffic offenses, capital offenses (life-maximum) and serious/violent felonies.

Several of Michigan’s diversion programs are listed below. Keep in mind that this is just a small overview of just a handful of the many different diversion programs available. To determine if there are any options available to you, consult with a knowledgeable attorney who has experience in getting clients into diversion programs.

Every court and locality offers beneficial programs for certain types of offenders. The state itself doesn’t provide a standard diversion program, so each county has its own criteria to qualify for these programs. Knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys like Attorney Carl Jordan, who is familiar with the current diversionary offerings in Wayne, Oakland or Macomb county can advise you on whether your legal matter would qualify you to participate.

Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA)
A diversion program for individuals between the ages of 18-26 who plead guilty to certain charges. Drunk driving and certain other offenses do not qualify. Cases are shielded from public view and dismissed upon successful completion of probation.
For more information see: Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA)

MCL 769.4a DV Domestic Violence Diversion
The Domestic Violence Diversion is for first-time domestic violence offenders. After the individual pleads guilty, he or she is sentenced to probation. After successfully completing the terms of probation, the charges are dismissed.

MCL 333.7411 Drug Crime Diversion
Drug crime diversion only applies to certain drug crimes. If the drug crime you are charged with makes you ineligible for diversion, an experienced criminal defense lawyer may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to dismiss the original charge and recharge you with an offense where a diversion program would be available.
For more information see: Drug Pretrial Diversion
Why A Criminal Defense Attorney is Needed for Diversion
Only experienced criminal defense attorneys that practice in Wayne, Oakland or Macomb county will know the diversion programs available in that area. If you have recently been charged with criminal conduct, reach out to Attorney Carl Jordan. He can inform you of diversion programs that might be applicable to your situation and ensure you get the most beneficial solution for your legal matter.

Who is Eligible for a Diversion Program?
There are many diversion programs that exist in Michigan. Without an experienced attorney with years of experience working with diversion programs, you may never know what is available. Prosecutors rarely volunteer this information. Their job is to convict you and quickly move on to their next case. When selecting an attorney to represent you, chose one that has a full understanding of these programs and who has experience in getting their clients into diversion programs.

About Metro Detroit Criminal Defense Attorney Carl Jordan
Carl Jordan believes that one poor decision shouldn’t ruin your life forever. He understands that your future is at stake and passionately advocates for his client’s rights and fights for them to obtain the best possible result – which includes diversion programs, if applicable.

Carl Jordan is a former Michigan and Wisconsin assistant prosecutor. He will take the time and expend the effort to negotiate the best possible resolution in every client's case. His comprehensive knowledge allows him to aggressively and effectively fight for you. Call Attorney Jordan at 248 358-6647 for a free consultation and he will find a way to help you.