Category: Diversion Programs

Colorado has been making strides in recent years to help decriminalize drugs, especially now that marijuana is legal both for medicinal and recreational use. However, at this time, Colorado is taking things a step further to help keep those who are charged with drug crimes out of the court system altogether. They’re doing so through a new recovery diversion program.

According to the District Attorney in Aurora, recovery diversion programs

A Colorado diversion program may allow an eligible person to resolve a criminal case without receiving a conviction. Instead of proceeding through traditional prosecution, the person agrees to satisfy specific requirements intended to provide accountability, address underlying problems, repair harm, and reduce the likelihood of another offense.

When a defendant successfully completes a qualifying pretrial diversion agreement, Colorado law generally requires the court to dismiss the filed charges with prejudice.