What is the diversion in the District of Columbia?
You should always explore your fun options first, even if you think you are the most innocent person on the planet. He can control the outcome of the case. He takes control away from the government and if you complete the required course of action, your case will usually be dismissed.
So if you come across a criminal defense attorney who says they never consider distracting their client, don’t hire them.
In the District of Columbia there are 2 prosecutor’s offices. The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia prosecutes most misdemeanor and felony crimes. The attorney general’s office prosecutes most traffic and misdemeanor cases.
Diversion in the District of Columbia means that the US Attorney’s Office or the Attorney General’s Office will not prosecute the case if you agree to meet certain conditions. The case is diverted from prosecution for 4 to 6 months in which you, the defendant, agree to perform various conditions, such as community service, drug treatment, or mental health treatment. Some diversion options require you to plead guilty and then, after certain conditions are met, the prosecutor will allow you to withdraw your guilty plea once you have completed the agreed-upon task.
Detour options are constantly changing in the District of Columbia. You should look for an experienced attorney who knows the ins and outs of the DC Superior Court. It may not be in your best interest to retain a “significant attorney” who does not regularly practice in High Court because diversion options change regularly and notice is not publicly transmitted to the bar association. In addition, prosecutors regularly change diversion options based on community needs.
In general, for a defendant to be eligible for diversion options, they cannot be convicted of or serve probation or probation for firearms offenses, sex offenses (with the exception of solicitation of prostitution), or violent felonies in the last ten years. Please note that US Attorneys and the Attorney General have complete discretion and may prohibit the diversion of a person regardless of their qualification based on other reasons.
Lastly, diversion can have immigration consequences, so you should seek out a qualified criminal attorney who knows immigration policy or at least consult with an immigration attorney if you have any questions.
As always, contact a lawyer to help you throughout this process.