Mapping Prosecutor-led Diversion Programs

Montgomery County District Attorney's Office

Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)

Restorative justice

Addressing traffic or DUI related issues

Description: First time offenders serve probationary sentence and then after successful completion case is expunged.

How long has the program been operating?: More than 10 years
If applicable, what approach, method, or goal best describes the diversion program?: Restorative justice
Addressing traffic or DUI related issues
At what stage of the process does the diversion program occur?: After the case is filed/charged, but before the defendant enters a plea
What population is your program intended to serve?: People arrested for the first time
People arrested with a particular offense
How are participants identified for the diversion program?: Referral from intake staff to diversion staff
Other
Are there any factors specific to your jurisdiction that influence how you structure this diversion program?: Diversion program authorized/mandated by state law
Does your office have informal or written policies about this diversion program's criteria/eligibility?: Yes
If applicable, please describe the diversion program's criteria/eligibility.: First time offenders on certain charges like driving under the influence where there was no accident involving others.
What are the programmatic options and/or requirements for the diversion?: Attend programming that is not a behavioral health intervention
Follow individualized case management plan
Pay restitution
Pay fines or fees
Write an apology letter to victim/community
Complete community service
Complete a restorative process
How does the diversion program impact your office's resources?: No financial impact