Lakewood Military Diversion Lawyer
Lakewood Military Diversion Attorney
When you’re a member of the military, facing criminal charges in Lakewood can be an even more daunting experience. Because criminal charges can impact your current position, it’s critical that you secure legal counsel swiftly. A knowledgeable Lakewood military diversion lawyer can provide you with the support, guidance, and resources you need to navigate criminal charges and protect your future.
Understanding Military Diversion Law in California
There are currently over 4.3 million members of the Total Department of Defense (DOD) team, including military officers and their families. To help protect active service members and make sure they receive the care they need, certain laws and programs are in place that change how specific legal matters are handled when members of the military are involved.
California Penal Code Section 1001.80 states that military diversion, under specific circumstances, may allow for a pre-trial diversion. This diversion allows a criminal case to be postponed for up to two years and allows a defendant to seek rehabilitative care instead of jail time. However, only certain individuals who commit misdemeanors are eligible for this diversion.
How Does the Military Diversion Program Work in California?
The purpose of the Military Diversion Program is to help military members seek treatment, as their active time in service may have impacted their mental health and been the true root of the offense that was committed. If a judge rules that you qualify for military diversion, you may need to meet with counselors or therapists, attend treatment meetings, submit to alcohol and drug tests, and participate in rehabilitative care to avoid criminal consequences.
If you successfully complete your assigned treatment period, then it is likely that your criminal case will be dismissed altogether. There is, however, the risk that you divert from the required steps of the program. If this occurs, a judge may terminate your pre-trial diversion, and you will face the same charges as before, just without the same leniency. A judge can also end the program prematurely if they determine that the individual is not truly benefiting from it.
Qualifying for Military Diversion in California
In order for an individual to qualify for the Military Diversion Program in California, there are several criteria they must meet. These include:
- You must be a current or former member of the United States military.
- You must suffer from a traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, sexual trauma, and/or mental health issues directly resulting from your time serving in the military.
- You must be arrested for an offense classified as a misdemeanor charge.
Increasing Your Eligibility for the Military Diversion Program
To strengthen your case and help increase your chances of qualifying for the Military Diversion Program, you should:
- Collect medical records that show your qualifying diagnosis.
- Collect citations or letters that discuss your trauma, heroism, and/or battlefield experience.
- Gather letters from your support network, such as your parents, siblings, spouse, partner, friends, and/or mentor, showing that there are people who believe that you would benefit from this program and grow as a result of it.
- Hire a military diversion lawyer to strengthen your case and protect your rights.
Why Should I Hire a Military Diversion Lawyer in Lakewood?
At the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, our team is dedicated to protecting the rights of those who have courageously protected our country. Our founding attorney holds more than 15 years of extensive legal experience and has in-depth knowledge of state, federal, and military legislation that may impact your case. We are committed to offering fierce, steadfast advocacy as you navigate complex criminal proceedings and military diversion hearings.
It is likely that your case will be carried out at the Bellflower Courthouse (Southeast District), where our team has handled countless cases and can help you manage your case with confidence. When you need a military diversion lawyer in Lakewood, you can depend on Christopher J. McCann.
FAQs About Lakewood, CA Military Diversion Laws
Should You Hire a Lawyer During a Military Diversion Case in California?
It is strongly recommended that you hire a lawyer if you’re attempting to work with the Military Diversion Program to avoid criminal charges. An experienced military diversion lawyer can help you understand your rights, how to qualify, and what you need to do to comply with the terms set forth by the program. They can also help you build a strong case that demonstrates why you should qualify for a pre-trial diversion.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Military Diversion Lawyer in California?
The cost of hiring a military diversion lawyer tends to vary case by case in the state of California. This is mostly due to the unique influence that certain variables can have on your overall price, including who you hire to represent you, the severity of your charges, the complexity of your case, and the amount of time it takes to settle.
How Many Times Can You Be Eligible for the Military Diversion Program in California?
In the state of California, a current or past member of the United States Military is typically only eligible for the Military Division Program once in their lifetime. The goal behind this program is to help people get the psychiatric and physical help they need to make healthier choices moving forward. So, if you complete the program once and then receive charges again, a judge will most likely assume the program did not work for you.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Military Diversion Case in Lakewood?
While the program itself typically lasts up to two years in Lakewood, the amount of time it takes to fully settle your case may vary. This is because a defendant must comply with all terms and rehabilitative requirements set forth by a judge for a certain amount of time before they find out whether their charges are dismissed.
Contact the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, Today
Navigating military diversion cases in California on your own can be a challenge. Luckily, the skilled team at the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, has been helping service members protect their futures for years. Contact the firm today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you get the second chance you deserve.
Schedule Your
Free Consultation
Fields Marked With An “*” Are Required
Contact us
© Copyright 2026 Law Offices Of Christopher J. McCann, APC. All rights reserved.
*Images are obtained under license from Canva and other third-party stock image providers, with attribution included where required.
Digital Marketing By 