Diversion

About the Program

The Juvenile Court Service Unit Diversion Program is designed to divert pre-adjudicated juveniles from formal proceedings in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Diversion programs are designed and implemented at the local level. Court Diversion is an alternative to traditional court proceedings providing an effective opportunity to address harm to victims in the community. It also helps offenders avoid future criminal conduct and a permanent juvenile record.

The Loudoun County Juvenile Court Service Unit Intake Department makes a referral and the diversion is overseen by a Diversion Probation Officer. This provides for a quick response to the offense. The advantages of diversion are:

• Holds the offenders responsible for their conduct
• Reduces likelihood of repeated involvement with the law
• Provides a means of rebuilding the community's sense of trust and security

There are several ways a case can be diverted to prevent it from going to court:

• Community Service Work Program
• Online Prevention and Intervention Courses
• Restorative Justice

More Information

For more information, contact the Juvenile Court Service Unit at 703-777-0303.