California Diversion Cost Guide
Who Pays for Diversion Programs in California?
There is no one California payment model for diversion. Depending on the program, costs may be covered by public or county programs, health coverage where applicable, grant-funded services, participant-paid private providers or other program-specific funding. Diversion is not always free, and not every participant pays.
Quick answer
Who Pays for Diversion?
- It depends on the program and the services involved.
- Possible sources include public, county or grant funding, health coverage and participant payment.
- The legal program and the clinical service may be funded differently.
Six funding sources
Who May Pay for Diversion-Related Services?
Six possible funding sources for diversion-related services.
Public program
- Publicly funded services
County / court program
- Local program funding
Health coverage
- Where applicable to treatment
Participant
- Some costs may be paid by the participant
Private provider arrangement
- Fees set by the provider
Other program funding
- Grants or program-specific funds
Do not blend
Four Different Kinds of Cost
- Court cost / legal program — fees or terms tied to the court or legal program
- Treatment cost — clinical services, which may involve health coverage
- Testing / monitoring cost — set by the testing or monitoring provider
- Private case management cost — optional private services
Public funding
Public and County Programs
Some counties and courts operate or fund programs. Availability and cost vary by county. See the Judicial Council's behavioral health resources.
Insurance
Health Coverage
Treatment may be covered by health insurance or public coverage where applicable. Coverage depends on the plan and the service.
Indigence
What if You Cannot Afford It?
There is no single statewide fee-waiver rule for all diversion. Some statutes address ability to pay narrowly. For example, PC §1001.96 contains an indigence protection regarding restitution in judicial misdemeanor diversion. That does not mean all diversion costs must be waived. Counsel can review what applies.
Optional
Private Services Are Not Required for Diversion
Private treatment or case management may be an option, but it is not required for diversion. Ask any provider for costs in writing before enrolling.
Legal note
Court fees and program terms are legal questions. Defense counsel can review what applies to your case.
What ETS can and cannot do
Where Executive Treatment Solutions Fits
ETS is a private service. ETS explains its costs before enrollment and does not claim private treatment is required for diversion. ETS does not set court fees.
Responsibilities
Who Does What?
Court / program
Sets legal program terms and any court costs.
Defense counsel
Reviews costs and ability-to-pay protections.
Service provider
Sets treatment, testing or monitoring fees.
ETS
Explains private service costs before enrollment.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Diversion Costs
Sources & Legal References
Confidential consultation
Clear, Upfront Service Costs
ETS explains private service costs before enrollment so you can decide with counsel.
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