Lakewood Judicial Diversion Lawyer
Lakewood Judicial Diversion Attorney
Judicial diversion is a crucial element of California’s justice system. Most misdemeanor offenses in Los Angeles County are eligible for judicial diversion, which can keep defendants from having a criminal trial and reduce their sentences. It enables them to participate in a supervised rehabilitation program or community service instead of serving time. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime, a Lakewood judicial diversion lawyer can represent you.
At the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, we’ve been advocating for the rights of the accused for over 15 years. Many non-violent misdemeanor offenses qualify for judicial diversion, which can help you get back to normal. It lets you put the mistakes of your past behind you without the lasting consequences of a criminal record.
Our legal team is qualified to review the details of your case. Then, we can determine if judicial diversion is an option for your situation. If so, we can advocate for it on your behalf.
What Is Judicial Diversion?
Judicial diversion seeks to reduce recidivism and incarceration by deferring prosecution and sentencing. Instead of these, it will refer the defendant to an appropriate supervised program that addresses the root cause behind the criminal act. If the defendant completes the program to the specified requirements, their case can be dismissed or charges reduced.
This can protect the defendant’s record, enabling them to move on without having to deal with an offense coming up on background checks.
Types of Cases that Qualify for Judicial Diversion in Lakewood, CA
Most non-violent, non-DUI misdemeanors qualify for judicial diversion, including:
- Drug possession offenses: Drug possession arrests are incredibly common throughout Los Angeles County. 85% of all arrests are for drug possession alone. With the recognition that substance use issues reflect mental health struggles, drug treatment programs have proven to be an effective alternative to incarceration for individuals struggling with addiction.
- Mental health-related offenses: Defendants whose criminal acts are directly related to their mental health are usually eligible for judicial diversion. Mental health treatment programs are a more compassionate and effective way to address misdemeanors that stem from mental health struggles. A judge will review the defendant’s clinical evaluation to determine whether the defendant would benefit from treatment.
- Veteran’s treatment diversion: A unique diversion category exists for veterans suffering from PTSD and other combat-related conditions. These individuals may benefit from treatment programs designed for service-connected issues.
Other offenses in Lakewood, such as domestic violence offenses and incidents of petty theft, may qualify for judicial diversion, especially if the defendant has no prior record.
If you have been arrested for a misdemeanor, it’s crucial to seek legal advice immediately to enhance your chances of a favorable judicial diversion case.
How the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, Can Help
At the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, we can evaluate the details of your case during a consultation. Then, we can use our knowledge of the state’s judicial diversion laws to advise you on the most effective way forward. Many times, potential clients are not aware that alternative sentencing and judicial diversion are options for their case.
Especially if this is your first criminal event, and you have a marked degree of remorse, judges are more likely to rule favorably on your case. They may allow for alternative sentencing and inclusion in one of California’s many treatment and rehabilitation programs. The Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, works alongside area judges in the Los Angeles Superior Court system. We coordinate effective interventions to address the underlying issues that lead to crime.
Statistics on Recidivism and Judicial Diversion
Studies have shown that restorative programs and judicial diversion are effective methods to reduce recidivism. There was a 33% reduction in repeated arrests for those who completed court-sanctioned treatment programs. 67% of participants in programs that include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) never reoffend again, whereas an average of 40-50% of those convicted of a misdemeanor under traditional punitive models reoffend within 5 years.
Intervention and treatment are proven methods to:
- Make our communities safer.
- Reduce incarceration and overcrowded prisons.
- Mitigate the tax burden mass incarceration creates.
Moreover, it gives those struggling with mental health symptoms and addiction a second chance at life.
FAQs About Lakewood, CA Judicial Diversion Laws
What Kinds of Cases Are Not Eligible for Judicial Diversion in Lakewood?
Serious sex crimes, violent felonies, DUIs, arson, and repeat offenses are usually not candidates for judicial diversion. These serious offenses impact the safety and well-being of others, so they carry harsher penalties as a result. If you have been charged with any crime, it’s vital to speak with a qualified Lakewood judicial diversion attorney. They can advise you of your rights and which avenues may be available to you.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Judicial Diversion?
The pros of judicial diversion include:
- Avoiding a criminal conviction
- Reduced recidivism
- Opportunity for growth and rehabilitation
- An expansion of opportunities in the job market
Many programs include training to help offenders find gainful employment after completing rehabilitation.
Cons can include:
- The time required to complete the program
- Monitoring and reporting obligations, similar to probation
- Risk of conviction if requirements are not met
What Happens After You Complete Diversion in Lakewood?
After the defendant meets all requirements and completes the program, a hearing will be held, and the judge will decide whether to dismiss the charges or sentence the defendant to traditional penalties, especially if the defendant does not complete all required actions of the diversion program. When you hire a judicial diversion lawyer, your chances of reduced or dismissed charges increase.
Do I Have to Go on Probation With Judicial Diversion in Lakewood?
Probation is typically a consequence of a traditional conviction and sentencing. With these, you may be required to report to a probation officer. With judicial diversion in Lakewood, oversight is often provided through the assigned program’s director or supervisor, who reports the outcomes of your treatment to the courts. It’s important to take the responsibilities of your assigned program seriously, as that can increase your chances of a favorable outcome and case dismissal.
If You Have Been Charged With a Crime, Hire a Judicial Diversion Lawyer in Lakewood, CA
With over 15 years of experience in judicial diversion and alternative sentencing programs, the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, has a proven record of successful outcomes for our clients. Contact us for a consultation to see if your case qualifies for potential judicial diversion.
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