The Judicial Diversion Program offers you the chance to move forward in your life free of drugs and alcohol.

What is the Judicial Diversion Program?
The Judicial Diversion Program (JDP) (CPL Article 216) takes place in courtrooms of the Suffolk County Court. JDP is a program for felony offenders who face non-violent charges, and who also abuse alcohol and/or drugs. Instead of jail or probation, JDP will help you enter and stay in a drug or alcohol treatment program. The JDP includes regular court appearances and supervision by a judge.

After arraignment, as an eligible defendant, you are given the opportunity to choose the Judicial Diversion Program as an alternative to the regular court process. If you abuse alcohol and/or drugs and are eligible for the program, your Case Manager will work with you to build a treatment plan. While you are in treatment, the Judge will closely monitor your progress.

Who Determines Your Substance Abuse Eligibility?
The JDP Resource Coordinator staff determines clinical eligibility through a screening process based on the your substance abuse history and appropriateness for treatment. If the treatment team determines that you have a substance abuse problem and are eligible for treatment, a recommendation will be made to the Judge. The Court will then make a determination on your eligibility based upon Five (5) factors enumerated in CPL Article 216, 05(3)(b).

When The Defendant Agrees To Participate:
The amount of time you spend in a JDP will depend on the crime you were originally charged with, your criminal history, your plea and your individual progress in treatment. Most people will spend anywhere from eighteen to twenty four months in the Judicial Diversion Program.

You will agree to abide by the Rules of the Court and those specifically designated for your program. You may not possess, sell, or use alcohol, marijuana or any other illegal drugs. You also may not possess or use any drug paraphernalia.

Any relapse by you involving drugs and/or alcohol must be reported to your JDP Case Manager, your Probation Officer and your Treatment Program immediately.

If you fail to complete the program by terminating yourself or failing to fully participate or are asked to leave for non-compliance issues, then the court will impose the jail sentence that was agreed upon and placed in the Judicial Diversion Program Contract.

If you successfully complete JDP, the Judge will dispose of your case in accordance with your plea agreement placed in the Judicial Diversion Program Contract.

To Successfully Complete JDP You Must:
•Attend your treatment program as scheduled
•Attend your court dates as indicated
•Follow all program rules, court and treatment
•Participate in all required activities
•Give negative urine tests for a minimum of six months leading up to completion.

Who Is Part Of JDP Partnership?
• The Judge
• The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office
• The Suffolk County Defense Bar
• The JDP Resource Coordinator Staff
• Suffolk County Department of Probation
• Community-Based Treatment Providers
• NYS Department of Parole

What Will The Program Give Its Participants?
An Opportunity to:
• Live a drug and crime free life
• Rebuild ties with family and the community
• Obtain a GED/Continue with education
• Develop job skills or learn a trade
• Have assistance in locating appropriate housing and transportation
• Feel a sense of purpose and well being