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I’ve Never Been in Trouble Before
Pre-trial Diversion Programs
When a child is taken into custody for the first or second time and the charge
is relatively minor and non-violent, the State may offer to “divert” the child
from formal court proceedings. The juvenile diversion programs are called
Delinquency Prevention Services (DPS) and the Post Arrest Diversion Program
operated by the Miami-Dade Juvenile Services Department. Those programs are
similar to the Pre-Trial Diversion Program for adult offenders. Participation is
voluntary. Diversion involves a contract in which the State agrees not to
prosecute the child if the child agrees to meet certain conditions. If the child
fails to complete the diversion program requirements, the child can be brought
back to court for further prosecution.
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