Minneapolis Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Minneapolis during a mental health crisis, Minnesota law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Minneapolis cases are generally handled in Hennepin County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Minnesota law that applies in Minneapolis
Minn. Stat. § 401.065 — Pretrial diversion.
- Minn. Stat. § 609A (expungement)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Minneapolis case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Minneapolis arrest, the case is filed with Hennepin 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 Hennepin County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Minneapolis
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 Minnesota breakdown, see the Minnesota diversion guide.
Minneapolis diversion FAQs
Does Minneapolis have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Minneapolis are typically heard in Hennepin County courts, where diversion is governed by Minn. Stat. § 401.065 (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 Minneapolis criminal cases heard?
Most Minneapolis arrests are prosecuted in the Hennepin 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 Minneapolis?
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 Minnesota law.
Can felony charges in Minneapolis be diverted?
It depends on Minnesota law and the specific charge. Some Minnesota programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Minneapolis diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Minneapolis?
Successful completion of a Minnesota 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 Minneapolis?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Hennepin County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.