What is a juvenile diversion program?

A juvenile diversion program is an alternative to traditional court proceedings for juveniles who are accused or suspected of committing a crime. It is a way for youth who break the law to take responsibility for their actions without having to go through the court system. In South Carolina, diversion programs are offered by local Juvenile Justice Departments in each county in the state. Most diversion programs are aimed at first-time offenders who have committed a minor or nonviolent crime. These programs provide educational, social, and psychological services to help youth understand why their behavior was wrong and to prevent them from reoffending. Depending on the specific program, juveniles may be required to complete community service, attend counseling, or take part in a rehabilitation program. Diversion programs can help juveniles avoid the long-term consequences of having a criminal record, which can include negative impacts on future education and employment opportunities. Additionally, juvenile diversion programs are beneficial to society as a whole because they focus on addressing the underlying causes of juvenile crime and helping young people become productive citizens.

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What is a juvenile diversion program?

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