Fort Collins Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Fort Collins during a mental health crisis, Colorado law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Fort Collins cases are generally handled in Larimer County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Colorado law that applies in Fort Collins
C.R.S. § 18-1.3-101 — Pretrial diversion.
- C.R.S. § 13-5-144 (problem-solving courts)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Fort Collins case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Fort Collins arrest, the case is filed with Larimer 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 Larimer County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Fort Collins
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.
Fort Collins diversion FAQs
Does Fort Collins have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Fort Collins are typically heard in Larimer 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 Fort Collins criminal cases heard?
Most Fort Collins arrests are prosecuted in the Larimer 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 Fort Collins?
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 Fort Collins be diverted?
It depends on Colorado law and the specific charge. Some Colorado programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Fort Collins diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Fort Collins?
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 Fort Collins?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Larimer County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.