Misdemeanor Diversion Court

About Our Program

The Tulsa County Misdemeanor Diversion Program (MDP) offers an alternative to the traditional court process for individuals facing misdemeanor charges. This program allows participants to engage in substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and case management, leading to the dismissal of their charges and any associated fines or fees. The primary aim of the MDP is to harness the accountability of the court system to break the cycles of criminality, mental illness, and addiction. By doing so, the program seeks to minimize the disempowering effects of fines, fees, and the stigma often associated with the traditional criminal justice process.

Eligibility Criteria

The MDP follows a mixed pre- and post-plea model, automatically excluding charges related to domestic violence, stalking, and violations of protective orders. However, individuals with other active misdemeanor charges in the Tulsa County District Court may be considered for the program at the discretion of the assigned prosecutor. Recommendations will be provided by the Tulsa County Alternative Community Program (TCACP), public defenders, and treatment providers. More than 93% of graduates remained arrest-free after graduation.

Eligible Charges:

Each individual’s arrest or case will be reviewed and approved by the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office, which will determine if the case is appropriate for the Misdemeanor Diversion Program.

Program Process

Learn more about the admissions process and program duration here.

Admission

The MDP is completely free for participants and provides access to essential resources, including urgent case management benefits, food assistance, emergency clothing, help with social services, and transportation support such as bus passes.

Duration

Designed to span six months, the MDP collaborates with each participant to assess their treatment and case management needs. Participants receive referrals to suitable community-based providers and assistance in navigating available services throughout the program. Successful completion of treatment eliminates the need for regular court reviews or supervision, culminating in the dismissal of the case.

Our Impact

The Veterans Treatment Court programs are transforming lives and making positive changes within the community.

Founded in 2021

More than 500 program graduates

Reduction of re-offense for graduates 1 year after program completion compared to those not in the program.

Lives Changed

Hear firsthand from those who have experienced the life-changing benefits of our programs.

“Working an honest program in a specialty court is multidirectional. If you don’t want to change, be honest. If you want to change, be honest. If you don’t know why you would want to change, be honest. If you don’t know how to change, be honest. If you are trying your best and struggling, be honest. Honesty will move you forwards in recovery, always. Deceit will do nothing for you at all.”