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