What is the purpose of diversion in juvenile justice?

The purpose of diversion in juvenile justice is primarily aimed at stopping youth from facing further legal penalties. Diversion programs are designed to redirect young offenders away from formal processing in the juvenile justice system and instead provide them with alternative consequences that can lead to rehabilitation. By engaging in diversion, youth can participate in community service, counseling, or educational programs that address the behaviors that led to their offenses. This approach prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment, helping to prevent any escalation into more serious criminal behavior and minimizing the long-term impact of a legal record on the youths' futures.

In preventing further legal penalties, diversion supports the broader goals of restorative justice, emphasizing accountability while focusing on the growth and development of the young person. This is an integral aspect of juvenile justice, as the system seeks to recognize that many youth are still in a critical stage of development and can benefit from positive interventions rather than traditional punitive measures.