Young persons can be referred to the Diversion Program before being charged with an offence (pre-charge). Successful completion of the pre-charge program within the required time frame will result in no charges being laid against program participants for the offence committed. If the young person is not successful in completing the program, they may be charged with the original offence and be processed through court.
Young persons can also be referred to the Diversion Program at several points in the court process after charges are laid (post-charge). In this circumstance, court proceedings are postponed to provide the opportunity for participation in the Diversion Program. Charges are withdrawn when the young person meets the requirements of the post-charge program. If the young person is not successful in completing the post-charge program, their case will proceed through the court process.
Diversion coordinators are responsible for ensuring that every young person referred to the program has an appropriate plan in place for accountability and intervention. Intervention plans focus on connecting the young person to community-based services to address the risk factors most closely associated with their offending behaviour and to help them to not commit future offences.
Accountability measures are intended to hold the young person responsible for the offence committed at the community level. Examples of accountability measures may include, but are not limited to:
- paying restitution to the victim;
- completing a period of community service;
- attending special information and education sessions; and
- providing personal service work for the victim.
Diversion programs may use restorative justice processes when it is appropriate. These processes provide safe opportunities for communication between the young person and the victim and others affected by the offence. Restorative practices also allow the young person an opportunity to repair the harm done.
Diversion coordinators can work individually with young persons referred to the program. They can also call upon Section 18 Youth Justice Committees for assistance in determining the most effective interventions and accountability measures for the referred young person.