You could be eligible for the domestic violence diversion program if you are charged with a crime of domestic violence in Fort Worth, TX. This program allows defendants to get their charges dismissed if they follow certain rules. Domestic violence convictions can have serious consequences; diversion is a great opportunity for people trying to avoid them.
A Fort Worth domestic violence defense attorney at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers can help you learn more about the program. We have more than 60 years of combined experience. Call our office at (682) 777-3336 to see if you are eligible today.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Get You In A Domestic Violence Diversion Program in Fort Worth, TX
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers will advocate for your admission into the domestic violence diversion program in Fort Worth, Texas. For many years, we have helped people charged with serious crimes, including domestic crimes. In fact, two attorneys on our team are board-certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Certification.
Our attorneys can help you throughout the domestic violence diversion program by:
- Handling communications with the district attorney
- Helping you get admitted into the program
- Explaining all the program rules and regulations
- Keeping track of court dates and your progress
- Fighting for you to stay in the program if you violate the rules
Completing diversion is much easier when you have an advocate on your side. Call our office to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth domestic violence attorney.
Who Is Eligible To Participate In A Diversion Program?
Only certain people are eligible to participate in the domestic violence diversion program. At a minimum, you must meet the following requirements:
- A misdemeanor domestic violence against a partner
- No prior convictions or current allegations of violating a protective order
- No allegation of stalking
- No outstanding arrest warrants
- No other pending charges
- Never previously participated in a diversion program
- Demonstrate commitment to completing the diversion program
- Have the victim’s consent (in some cases)
- Have the District Attorney’s consent
The reason for these rigid criteria is that the purpose of the program is to rehabilitate domestic violence offenders. The court wants to make sure the participants are dedicated to completing the program. This includes accepting the resources to prevent them from committing further violence in the future.
The Steps To Get Into A Domestic Violence Diversion Program
The most important step to getting admitted into the domestic violence diversion program is to talk about it with your attorney. Your lawyer can begin the process of having your charge diverted and help get the District Attorney on your side.
Here are additional steps:
- Enroll in the program.
- Undergo an assessment.
- You may have to sign a formal consent form.
- You may be required to plead guilty to a domestic violence misdemeanor.
- Continue the case for a set period of time.
- If you successfully complete the program, you can withdraw your guilty plea.
After admission into the program, you must complete all program requirements while on bond.
Requirements For Staying In A Domestic Violence Diversion Program
The domestic violence diversion program can be intense. There are a lot of requirements, and many people do not succeed. You need to understand the requirements before agreeing to participate. If you don’t, you may be convicted of the domestic violence charge.
Some of the program requirements include:
- Reporting to a case manager in person every week for the first 30 days
- Contacting the case manager twice a month for the remainder of the year
- Completing all treatment and recommended counseling
- Attending a progress review in court at least one time during the program
- Paying $60 a month to participate
Additionally, you must follow all conditions of your bond. This generally includes avoiding further criminal charges. If you are subject to a protective order, you also need to follow those rules as well. Your domestic violence defense attorney can explain what you need to do to complete the program successfully.
What Happens If You Violate A Program Requirement?
Since domestic violence diversion programs impose strict requirements upon participants, many people violate the conditions. If you violate a program requirement, the court can reinstate your guilty plea and convict you of misdemeanor domestic violence.
When you plead guilty and agree to enter the program, you waive your right to fight the charge if you fail out of the program. You need to be sure that you can complete the program before entering it because you will be unable to defend yourself later.
In some cases, the court may give you a second chance, depending on the type of violation. If it is relatively minor, you could still remain in the program. A criminal defense attorney can help you fight to stay in the program even if you have committed a violation.
Contact Our Fort Worth Domestic Violence Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you have any questions about whether a domestic violence diversion program is an option for you, reach out to Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers today for a consultation. Our Fort Worth domestic violence lawyers can answer your questions and advocate for your admission to a program.
