Diversion

The Diversion Unit is obligated to inform the juvenile offender before entering into a diversion agreement, of the availability of free legal counsel, though the juvenile may seek legal assistance from any counsel of his/her choosing.

The goals and objectives of the Diversion Unit are:

•  To hold the youth accountable for his or her offense(s)
•  To foster change in the offender's attitudes and behaviors so that they conform to the law and community standards
•  To impress upon the offender that the community is concerned with his or her conduct
•  To increase the offender's awareness of the relationship between the offense committed and the people injured by the offense

  Diversion

•  All proceedings are confidential
•  Case records are confidential
•  Legal representation is not required

Juvenile Court

•  All hearings are open to the public
•  Court records are public information
•  Numerous court appearances may be required
•  Court fees and/or fines are usually assigned
•  The parent/guardian may have to reimburse the court for the public defender and a private attorney may charge fees for representation
•  The youth may be sentenced to community supervision (probation)

In Cowlitz County these cases are typically handled on an individual basis by the juvenile department's Diversion Counselor.  After receipt of a police referral, the counselor contacts the parent/guardian and the child to set up an appointment.  This appointment is called a "diversion appointment" and the youth will be advised of his/her rights and will be given information about the diversion process.  The nature of the offense and a review of the police report will be discussed and the child will enter into a diversion contract if everyone is in agreement.

Typically, these cases involve first or second time offenders, aged 8 to 17, who are alleged to have committed misdemeanor offenses such as shoplifting, being in possession of alcohol, minor assaults, malicious mischief and trespassing.

  A diversion agreement is a contract between the youth, his/her parent or guardian and the Juvenile Department which holds the youth accountable for the offense by:

•  Assigning community service work to benefit the youth's community
•  Requiring reimbursement to the victims
•  Requiring attendance at informational/educational programs

The diversion counselor will also assist the family in finding needed services for the offender.