A smarter alternative
Pretrial Diversion Programs
Diversion may let some people complete treatment, education or other requirements instead of going through the case the usual way.
Eligibility depends on the law, the charges, the court, the prosecutor where it applies, and your attorney's advice. ETS does not decide who qualifies.
Diversion may involve
Treatment
Education or classes
Testing or monitoring
Progress documentation
Eligibility depends on the law, the charge, the court, and legal advice.
And why courts offer it
What Are Pretrial Diversion Programs?
Instead of moving straight to a plea deal or trial, the court may offer a second path. That path focuses on treatment, accountability and personal change.
ETS helps people get ready for diversion, take part, and keep clear records of their progress.
- 01
Pausing the Criminal Process
The case is put on hold while you complete a program.
- 02
Entering a Supervised Program
This may include therapy, testing, counseling or classes.
- 03
Fulfilling Court Requirements
You keep up with treatment, check-ins and the rules of the program.
- 04
Completing the Program
When you finish, the charges may be reduced or dismissed. That is not guaranteed.
Program types
Diversion Programs We Help With
ETS works with defense attorneys throughout California on the main types of diversion. Pick one to learn more.
Common / featured pathways
Misdemeanors
Judicial Diversion
The judge can offer diversion for many misdemeanors, even without the prosecutor's agreement.
May be relevant to: People facing misdemeanor charges
Explore Judicial DiversionMental health
Mental Health Diversion
Assessment, treatment coordination, case management and documentation when Mental Health Diversion is being explored with defense counsel.
May be relevant to: People whose mental health played a part
Explore Mental Health DiversionOther diversion pathways
Felony
Diversion Options in Felony Cases
Different legal pathways may apply in different felony cases. Explore how ETS coordinates assessment, treatment, case management and documentation while defense counsel evaluates the legal path.
May be relevant to: People facing felony charges
Explore Felony Case OptionsStructured
Formal Diversion
Structured support for diversion arrangements involving defined requirements, milestones or ongoing documentation. The legal terms depend on the applicable pathway.
May be relevant to: People with structured requirements
Explore Formal DiversionNegotiated
Informal Diversion
Less structured, often worked out with the prosecutor, but you still need to show progress.
May be relevant to: People with an agreement outside court
Explore Informal DiversionMisdemeanor
Misdemeanor Diversion
A short treatment or accountability plan that may help avoid a misdemeanor conviction.
May be relevant to: People facing misdemeanors
Explore Misdemeanor DiversionVeterans
Veterans Diversion
For veterans whose charges relate to service issues like PTSD or substance use, including Veterans Treatment Court.
May be relevant to: Veterans and service members
Explore Veterans DiversionGeneral
Pretrial Diversion
The general term for diversion offered before trial, either negotiated with the prosecutor or led by the judge.
May be relevant to: Anyone exploring options before trial
Explore Pretrial DiversionGeneral education only
What Can Affect Eligibility?
ETS does not decide whether someone qualifies for diversion. Your attorney can explain how the law and local court rules apply to your case.
Charge type
Some charges qualify for diversion and some do not. Violent or serious charges are often excluded.
Prior record
A first arrest is often viewed differently than a long record. Past convictions can limit which programs are open to you.
Program rules
Each program has its own rules about who can enter, what you must do, and how long it lasts.
Court / jurisdiction
Courts in different counties handle diversion differently. Local rules and practices matter.
Prosecutor involvement where applicable
In some cases the prosecutor has a say in whether diversion is offered or agreed to.
Attorney strategy
Your attorney decides how to request diversion and how to present your situation to the court.
Before you decide
Questions to Talk Through With Your Attorney
Diversion isn't right for everyone. These guides explain the trade-offs in plain English.
Where ETS fits
How ETS Supports the Process
- 01
Assess
Understand the situation and support needs.
- 02
- 03
- 04
Exploring diversion?
Find Out What Support You May Need
Talk with ETS about treatment, testing and records that may help your attorney discuss diversion. We can't decide eligibility, but we can help you get organized.
