What is the purpose of a diversion program in juvenile justice?

The purpose of a diversion program in juvenile justice primarily revolves around providing an alternative to traditional court proceedings. The essence of these programs is to hold juveniles accountable for their actions while avoiding the formal court process and its consequences, such as a criminal record.

By allowing juveniles to participate in diversion programs, they typically face consequences for their behavior, which can range from community service to rehabilitation programs, but they do this outside of the formal Family Court system. This approach not only helps to minimize the negative impacts that a court record might have on a young person's future but also focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. The intention is to redirect juvenile offenders towards positive behavior and support their development, reducing the likelihood of future offenses.

In contrast, other options focus on counseling, criminalization, or prolonging detention, which do not align with the foundational goals of diversion programs. This illustrates the significance of diversion programs in promoting a more rehabilitative and developmental approach to juvenile justice.