Evansville Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Evansville during a mental health crisis, Indiana law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Evansville cases are generally handled in Vanderburgh County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Indiana law that applies in Evansville
Ind. Code § 33-23-16 — Problem-solving courts.
- Ind. Code § 33-39-1-8 (pretrial diversion)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Evansville case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Evansville arrest, the case is filed with Vanderburgh 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 Vanderburgh County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Evansville
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 Indiana breakdown, see the Indiana diversion guide.
Evansville diversion FAQs
Does Evansville have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Evansville are typically heard in Vanderburgh County courts, where diversion is governed by Ind. Code § 33-23-16 (Problem-solving courts) and local court and prosecutor policy. Availability depends on the charge and program capacity — a local defense attorney can confirm current options.
Where are Evansville criminal cases heard?
Most Evansville arrests are prosecuted in the Vanderburgh 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 Evansville?
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 Indiana law.
Can felony charges in Evansville be diverted?
It depends on Indiana law and the specific charge. Some Indiana programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Evansville diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Evansville?
Successful completion of a Indiana 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 Evansville?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Vanderburgh County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.