Diversion
In Colorado, prosecutor-led pretrial adult diversion programs provide a path out of the conventional criminal court processes of plea, trial, conviction, and sentencing. Across the state, adult diversion programs hold people accountable for their actions and for repairing harm to victims of crime, address underlying substance use and/or behavioral health issues, and ultimately reduce future criminal behavior.
Although some adult diversion programs predated this legislation, House Bill 13-1156, enacted in August 2013, created a formal mechanism for diverting individuals accused of statutorily eligible offenses away from conventional criminal justice system involvement. The legislation defined the parameters of pretrial adult diversion and established funding for program operations in §18- 1.3-101, C.R.S.
House Bill 13-1156 also established the Adult Diversion Funding Committee (Funding Committee). The composition and duties of the Funding Committee, such as the development of a funding application process, are outlined in §13-3-115, C.R.S. The Funding Committee reviews funding requests annually and meets regularly to discuss program progress, review participant data, and manage the administration of program funds.
Since October 2013, the State Court Administrator’s Office (SCAO) has coordinated the Funding Committee’s work, assisted with application materials, funding guidelines, and reporting obligations, and maintained program information, including past annual legislative reports.
SCAO’s approach to supporting adult diversion reflects the Judicial Branch’s commitment to effective alternatives that reduce future harm, repair past harm to victims, and focus court resources where they are needed the most.
Program Mission: To support Colorado communities in offering diversion programs tailored to their local needs.
Program Vision: A Colorado where courts, prosecutors, and communities work together to divert eligible individuals from standard prosecution into equitable, community-based programs that promote accountability, improve behavioral health outcomes, and strengthen public safety.
For general questions about adult diversion in Colorado, please contact adultdiversion@judicial.state.co.us.