Denver Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Denver during a mental health crisis, Colorado law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Denver cases are generally handled in Denver County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Colorado law that applies in Denver
C.R.S. § 18-1.3-101 — Pretrial diversion.
- C.R.S. § 13-5-144 (problem-solving courts)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Denver case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Denver arrest, the case is filed with Denver County prosecutors. Jail mental health staff may flag a condition at intake.
- 2. Defense request. Your attorney gathers treatment records and asks the court or prosecutor for diversion or mental health court referral.
- 3. Evaluation & plan. A clinician confirms the diagnosis and proposes a treatment plan for the court to review.
- 4. Supervision. You follow the plan with regular check-ins with the Denver County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Denver
Courts commonly consider a diagnosed condition such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, or major depression; whether it contributed to the alleged offense; whether treatment is likely to help; and public safety. Veterans may also be eligible for veterans treatment court where available. For the full Colorado breakdown, see the Colorado diversion guide.
Denver diversion FAQs
Does Denver have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Denver are typically heard in Denver County courts, where diversion is governed by C.R.S. § 18-1.3-101 (Pretrial diversion) and local court and prosecutor policy. Availability depends on the charge and program capacity — a local defense attorney can confirm current options.
Where are Denver criminal cases heard?
Most Denver arrests are prosecuted in the Denver County criminal courts. Some minor offenses may go through municipal court. Mental health court dockets, where available, are usually run at the county level.
Who qualifies for mental health diversion in Denver?
Courts commonly look for a diagnosed mental health condition (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, major depression, and others) that played a role in the offense, a treatment plan likely to help, and no unreasonable public safety risk. Some serious or violent charges may be excluded under Colorado law.
Can felony charges in Denver be diverted?
It depends on Colorado law and the specific charge. Some Colorado programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Denver diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Denver?
Successful completion of a Colorado diversion program often leads to dismissal of the charges, and may open the door to sealing or expungement of the arrest record.
How do I find a mental health diversion lawyer in Denver?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Denver County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.