Court Diversion Services

Court Diversion services provide a variety of interventions for juveniles detained by law enforcement, including diversion from the Circuit Court for first-time offenders and probation services for youth involved with the Circuit Court.

Court Diversion Services

TYFS serves the tri-county area – Sublette, Lincoln, and Teton Counties. Of the counties served, 76% of the youth come from Teton County.

The purpose of Diversion and Circuit Court Programs is to provide a systematic process for youth to repair harm from crimes or other offenses, and to learn to accept responsibility and alleviate guilt and shame.

The focus is placed on first time offenders, as studies have shown that recidivism rates are reduced with this type of intervention.

The focus is placed on first time offenders as studies have concluded that recidivism rates are reduced with this type of intervention. The purpose of Diversion and Circuit Court Programs is to provide a systematic process for youth to repair harm from crimes and other offenses to learn to accept responsibility and alleviate guilt and shame.

Contact us at the Hirschfield Center for Children (307) 733-7946 for more information on the Court Diverson services we offer.

What is the Juvenile Diversion Program?

The Juvenile Diversion Program is voluntary for first-time juvenile offenders living in Teton County, Wyoming. The program serves as intervention for juveniles facing Circuit Court charges. It provides a supportive process for youth to repair harm from crimes or other offenses, learn to accept responsibility, alleviate any guilt or shame, and promote self-growth and positive behavioral changes. Studies have concluded that recidivism rates are reduced with this type of programmatic intervention.

The Juvenile Diversion Program incorporates the Balanced and Restorative Justice Model, which focuses on the needs of the victims, offenders, and the community instead of satisfying abstract legal principles or enforcing traditional punitive methods. Victims have an active role in the process while offenders take responsibility for their actions.

How long is the Juvenile Diversion Program?

The Juvenile Diversion Program is a six-month program. In addition to weekly meetings with the Program Coordinator, requirements may include community service hours, substance use counseling, and individual therapy. Upon completing the program, juveniles have an opportunity for their charge or charges to be dismissed with prejudice, meaning that they cannot be refiled in court.