Being arrested no matter what the reason can be a very scary experience for people in Nebraska. Among the many things with which to be concerned about an arrest are the long-term effects of potentially having a criminal record. The state of Nebraska offers some people an opportunity to avoid this by participating in a diversion program.
As explained by Sarpy County, some offenses that commonly qualify people for diversion programs are possessing alcohol by minors, driving while under the influence, or possessing less than one ounce of pot. Each county runs its own diversion program. According to the Douglas County District Court, the diversion program in this county is called Adult Drug Court. The district court attorney may refer eligible defendants for the program but participation is always voluntary. Even people charged with some felony drug offenses may participate.
The goal of diversion is to provide appropriate treatment and rehabilitation options that facilitate people obtaining jobs and overcoming substance addictions. A person may expect to be in diversion for one year or longer depending upon their circumstances. During the diversion period, participants are subject to random drug or alcohol screenings and must also appear before a judge and a program supervisor at specified times.
The phases of diversion take people through from the early stages of treatment through to full-time employment and independent, substance-free living. Once a person is allowed to graduate from diversion, there will be no criminal record on file for the offense related to the diversion participation.