NEWTON MUNICIPAL COURT
DIVERSION INFORMATION
Traffic Diversions
Traffic Diversions last for 6 months, are fairly simple, and are useful for
purposes such as preventing insurance rate increases. For further information,
download the Minor Traffic Diversion Application &
Info Sheet. Traffic diversions are generally only available for minor
infractions, such as those that would otherwise be payable out of court.
Standard Diversions
What is a Diversion? Diversions are a second-chance opportunity offered by the
Prosecutor which prevent convictions from going onto the criminal record. Diversions
are an agreement with the prosecutor and, if the defendant complies with the terms
of the agreement, the charges are dismissed.
How do Diversions Work? Diversions last for 12 months and involve various requirements.
Standard requirements include:
- Attend an initial meeting with the Diversion Officer.
- Pay a $200 diversion fee at the initial meeting.
- Personally submit a report form to the court each month.
- Do NOT break the law during the diversion term.
In addition, each diversion agreement contains requirements specific to the charges
involved. Common examples include:
- No drugs/alcohol (on charges of DUI, Minor w/ Alcohol, Marijuana…).
- No checking account (on charges of passing worthless checks).
- Attend anger management class (on charges of domestic battery).
- Attend shoplifters education class (on charges of theft).
- Pay restitution.
Diversion Eligibility: Diversions are generally not available on a second offence
of the same or similar crime. Granting a diversion is at the sole discretion of
the prosecutor, and various considerations apply.
How to Apply: A completed diversion application must be presented to the prosecutor
at the scheduled court date/time. When checking in at the court window, simply alert
the clerk to your interest in a diversion and further instruction will be given.
To save time on your court day, download and complete the
Diversion Application in advance.
