Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: An alternative to traditional prosecution where eligible defendants complete a supervised program (drug treatment, community service, counseling) in exchange for having charges dismissed. Florida offers Pretrial Intervention (PTI) and Drug Court programs.
Category: Sentencing · Statute: F.S. 948.08 · Source: Florida Legislature
Florida Statute 948.08 — Pretrial Intervention Program"The department... shall establish a pretrial intervention program for the purpose of providing appropriate counseling, education, supervision, and other services for persons found eligible."
Types of Diversion Programs
- PTI (Pretrial Intervention) — For first-time offenders; typically 3-12 months of supervision
- Drug Court — Intensive treatment program for substance abuse offenders
- Mental Health Court — Treatment-based approach for defendants with mental illness
- Veterans Court — Specialized program for military veterans
Benefits of Diversion
- Charges are dismissed upon successful completion
- Eligible for expungement after dismissal
- No conviction on your record
- Avoids trial, potential jail time, and stigma of conviction