Buffalo, NY Criminal Defense Lawyers Explain Diversion Programs

Buffalo, NY Criminal Defense Lawyers Explain Diversion Programs

Getting arrested for a crime in Buffalo can be a scary experience. Even a minor charge can carry severe consequences like jail time, fines, probation, or a permanent criminal record. That’s why it’s important to speak to an experienced Buffalo criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest. A knowledgeable attorney can advise you on all your options, including diversion programs that may enable you to avoid a conviction.

In this article, we’ll explain what diversion programs are, who is eligible, and how they can help resolve a criminal case in Buffalo.

Why Hire a Lawyer for Diversion?

Having a skilled Buffalo criminal defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference in pursuing diversion and achieving the best outcome. Here’s how an attorney can help:

• Determine Eligibility – Assess if you meet the prosecutor’s criteria for diversion in your case.
• Advocate for Admission – Negotiate with the prosecutor and argue for your acceptance into a program.
• Navigate the Process – Guide you through every step of the application, program requirements, and completion.
• Increase Success – Develop a supervision plan to ensure you satisfy all conditions and graduate.
• Avoid Pitfalls – Counsel you on complying with all rules so you don’t jeopardize your participation.
• Alternative Options – If diversion is rejected, pursue other favorable resolutions to your case.

Without a lawyer, the complexities of diversion can be nearly impossible to navigate. Having an experienced Buffalo criminal defense attorney on your side levels the playing field.

Diversion Case Examples in Buffalo

To understand how diversion works, it helps to look at some real-world examples of cases in Buffalo:

• A 19-year-old college student arrested for marijuana possession may be offered a diversion program focused on drug counseling rather than facing prosecution.
• A mother facing shoplifting charges for stealing clothes for her kids could enter a program requiring community service and restitution to the store.
• A man charged with assault after a bar fight may be eligible for an anger management diversion program.
• A teenager busted for vandalizing a school could participate in a restorative justice program making amends directly to the community.
• A woman struggling with addiction and facing drug charges could enter treatment and monitoring through drug court.

In each case, the defendant avoids a permanent criminal record and gets connected to targeted services to address their behavior. Diversion provides a second chance while reducing recidivism.

Finding the Right Buffalo Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in Buffalo, consulting with a criminal defense lawyer should be your first call. An experienced attorney can advise you on diversion programs and alternatives to reduce charges or avoid a conviction entirely.

Look for a Buffalo lawyer with extensive experience handling criminal cases in the courts where your case is pending. Ask about their diversion program acceptance rates and history negotiating with prosecutors. Be sure they have the resources and staff to give your case the time and attention it deserves.

Don’t leave your future to chance. The right lawyer can make all the difference in pursuing diversion, avoiding a conviction, and resolving your case on the most favorable terms. With so much at stake, let a knowledgeable Buffalo criminal defense attorney fight on your behalf for the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Diversion Programs

What are the typical requirements of diversion programs?

Common requirements include drug/alcohol counseling, mental health treatment, community service, victim restitution, apology letters, educational programs, and monitoring/supervision. The specifics vary based on the charges and the program.

How long do diversion programs take to complete?

Most diversion programs take 6-12 months on average. Simple pre-trial diversion may only take a few months, while drug court and other intensive treatment programs could last 18+ months.

Does diversion result in a criminal conviction on my record?

No, successful completion of diversion results in your charges being dismissed without a conviction ever appearing on your record.

Can I get diversion for multiple charges or repeat offenses?

Usually not – diversion is generally limited to first time offenders facing low-level charges. Multiple charges or prior records often disqualify you.

Is diversion guaranteed if I meet the eligibility criteria?

No, the prosecutor has discretion over admission so meeting the criteria does not guarantee diversion. An experienced lawyer can help argue your case.

What happens if I don’t complete the diversion program successfully?

You would be terminated from the program and prosecuted on the original criminal charges. Any progress in the program would likely help mitigate sentencing.

How much does diversion cost compared to a criminal case?

Diversion costs vary by program but are almost always significantly lower than the total costs of fines, fees, and expenses associated with a conviction.

Conclusion

Getting charged with a crime in Buffalo does not necessarily mean you are headed for prosecution and a permanent criminal record. Diversion programs provide alternatives for eligible defendants to get the help they need while avoiding the consequences of a conviction. The availability of diversion, eligibility criteria, and specific program requirements vary, so having an experienced Buffalo criminal defense lawyer guide you through the options is critical. An attorney can advise you on the diversion programs suitable to your charges, advocate for your admission, and help ensure successful completion so your charges are dismissed. Diversion provides a powerful opportunity for a second chance and a clean slate in many cases.