Domestic Violence Diversion Court (DVC) works to help both victim and perpetrator in domestic violence cases. DVC provides early intervention services and places offenders into clinically appropriate treatment. The goal is to prevent further abuse and keep the victim safe.
Services
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Assessments of participants’ need for support (conducted by PHMC’s Clinical Evaluation Unit)
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Coordination of placement, treatment authorization, and payment for any services
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Treatment plans may involve substance use recovery, mental health counseling, anger management, and/or family therapy
The case can be discharged when the participant (defendant) has completed treatment, and there are no further issues with the victim. At that point, the court will withdraw all prosecution. Thirty days later, the defendant can start the process to have the record of the case expunged, or removed.
Eligibility & Referrals
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DVC is available only to first- or second-time offenders in instances when the victim does not wish to press charges.