Augusta Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Augusta during a mental health crisis, Georgia law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Augusta cases are generally handled in Richmond County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Georgia law that applies in Augusta
O.C.G.A. § 15-1-16 — Mental health court divisions.
- O.C.G.A. § 15-18-80 (pretrial diversion)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Augusta case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Augusta arrest, the case is filed with Richmond 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 Richmond County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Augusta
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 Georgia breakdown, see the Georgia diversion guide.
Augusta diversion FAQs
Does Augusta have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Augusta are typically heard in Richmond County courts, where diversion is governed by O.C.G.A. § 15-1-16 (Mental health court divisions) and local court and prosecutor policy. Availability depends on the charge and program capacity — a local defense attorney can confirm current options.
Where are Augusta criminal cases heard?
Most Augusta arrests are prosecuted in the Richmond 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 Augusta?
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 Georgia law.
Can felony charges in Augusta be diverted?
It depends on Georgia law and the specific charge. Some Georgia programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Augusta diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Augusta?
Successful completion of a Georgia 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 Augusta?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Richmond County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.