Diversion Programs & Alternative Courts in Miami-Dade County
If you have been arrested and charged in Miami-Dade County, there are several ways to handle your case aside from the traditional trial or plea procedure. Below are some examples of different programs and alternative courts available in Miami. Attorney Alyssa Altonaga has experience successfully negotiating with prosecutors and guiding clients through all of the programs listed below, and has obtained dismissals and/or reductions in charges as a result.
Back On Track, a.k.a. BOT
The BOT program is for people who have been charged with driving under the influence. Successful completion of the BOT program doesn’t result in your case getting dismissed, but may result in the charge being amended from a DUI to reckless driving and a withhold of adjudication. Whether or not you qualify, and whether you’re placed in Tier 1 or Tier 2 of BOT depends on your blood alcohol level and whether you refused a breath or blood test. The requirements for the program differ depending on the Tier you are in.
Pretrial Intervention or Diversion
Pretrial Diversion/Intervention is a way to get your case off the traditional plea/trial track by agreeing to certain conditions. These conditions include community service and taking an online class—depending on the charge, this could be a class on drugs, gun safety, or anger management. Once the requirements are fulfilled, your case gets dismissed.
Mental Health Court
In Miami, if an individual is diagnosed with a primary serious mental illness and agrees to treatment, their case may be diverted to the mental health court depending on the individuals charges and prior criminal history. Program participants are provided with community-based treatment and support services. Click here to learn more about Miami’s Criminal Mental Health Project.
Drug Court
Similar to mental health court, Miami drug court seeks to rehabilitate individuals who have been charged with drug possession and suffer from addiction. The individual’s recovery is overseen by the treatment counselor and the judge. Upon successful completion of the program, the individual “graduates” and is released from court supervision. Click here to learn more about Miami's Drug Court.
