The Office of the State Attorney maintains several diversionary programs designed to render speedy justice without involvement in the traditional court system. These programs were initiated as a means of attending to minor criminal offenses formerly dealt with by the old justice of the peace system, which was abolished in the mid 70's.

These programs provide victims with a responsive forum to address a loss, to avoid arrest and prosecution of the defendant in appropriate situations, and to bring the case to a conclusion as rapidly as possible. They further reduce the backlog of cases in the system in a more cost effective manner.

The Diversion Programs For Adults For Juveniles

The hearings conducted through these programs are manned by specially trained volunteers who serve as mediators or hearing officers. Their role is likened to the work performed by the Justice of the Peace. It is a highly technical and professional position with the volunteers administering work hours, restitution, and referral service in a quasi-judicial atmosphere.

In the years since starting, these programs have resulted in thousands of community service work hours and restitution to victims of crimes in thousands of dollars. It is impossible to measure the savings in prevention. 

To view an informative presentation about our Diversion Programs, click here to download the .pdf file titled "SAO Diversion Programs" .

Volunteers are needed

Many programs are made possible through the efforts of specially trained volunteers who serve as hearing officers. Their role is similar to that of the Justice of the Peace. The volunteers assign work hours, restitution, and other sanctions in a quasi-judicial atmosphere. Additionally, volunteers refer juveniles in need of specialized treatment to appropriate agencies. If you would like to volunteer, please call (904) 630-2075 for more information, or print out this Volunteer Application, fill out, and mail to:

State Attorney's Office
Attn: Deborah Garrett
330 East Bay Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202-2982

NOTE:  This application is provided in the Adobe PDF format. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to download this file. Click here for a FREE download.