what is diversion?

Question

I stole a sixty dollar bottle of tanning lotion and i got the diversion papers in the mail. what all will i have to do?
i dont drink and i dont smoke pot but i do smoke cigarrettes.. will they do a test that will show them i smoke?
please help me.

Answer 1

Here is an article called "How to Get Legal Help When You Can't Afford It." It describes legal resources in every state, including legal information and links to organizations that offer free legal advice and assistance.

http://www.courtreference.com/court-reference-blog/2007/12/19/how-to-find-legal-help-when-you-cant-afford-it/

As a general matter, "diversion" is a special program for first-time offenders that will have various probation-like requirements. If you follow them and do not get charged with anything else during the "probation", you may end up not having a record. I've heard of diversion programs that make people write essays, perform community service and things that are "restorative" to the community. So you probably have to pay for that tanning lotion at the very least. I can't tell you any specifics about what your diversion program involves, but usually court websites explain it. Some of the links in the article above can connect you to court websites for your state.

I have never heard of a drug test that checks for nicotine, but you are right that they could test for it. The laws and procedures are different for every state, so you need to find legal information in your state. I doubt that you would be tested for nicotine, but I don't know enough about the juvenile justice system in general or what the rules are for your state to tell you one way or another.

You may be able to get your answer from the local public defender's office. Phrase it as a general question and they may speak with you. Those offices tend to be very busy, so they may not, but some places have nice public defenders who can take a minute to let you know what to expect in general. If that doesn't work, I suggest you call your local legal aid and see if they can tell you or give you other ideas on where to find out.

Answer 2

Most likely this means they are offering you an opportunity to avoid a criminal record. A diversion program is often used for first time offenders (non-violent crimes).

If the person successfully completes the requirements (community service, etc), the charges will be dropped. It is unlikely the diversion program will include drug testing because you got arrested for shoplifting. Smoking cigarettes will probably not be prohibited in the program. You may also have to undergo counseling or some type of class.

Believe me, it is worth it to do this to avoid having to say "yes" on every job or college application to the question "Have you ever been convicted of a crime". Do this program, do it right, don't screw up again. I wish you a successful and happy life.

Answer 3

It is called shoplifting actually. The papers you got were to let you know you have to appear in court. There is no fine for shoplifting, you have to see a judge for sentencing. You are a juvenile I'm assuming, which means this is your first offense (other wise you would know the answer) and they are usually lenient. You will probably end up doing some community service and/or getting a probation officer. Usually for the first offense they give you a freebie. They do not want you in the system yet. But, if you have to go back again, you can guarantee yourself a probation officer and maybe even some time in JDC (Juvenille Detention Center).

Quit stealing and start doing your homework!!

Answer 4

I don't steal so I don't know the legal consequences. I suggest you tell the judge that you are got scared and sharted (**** and fart incase you didn't know) so you stole the lotion. Maybe he'll think that you are mentally incompetent and drop all charges. Good luck and please do not steal, OK. I hope everything works out or you in court. God bless and merry Christmas!!!! I hope you get a bottle of tanning lotion for Christmas by the way :).

Answer 5

Any store that charges $60 for a bottle of tanning lotion is the real thief, that's my position on this matter.

Answer 6

Reply to the diversion papers and be sure to be clean.

Answer 7

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