Buffalo Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Buffalo during a mental health crisis, New York law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Buffalo cases are generally handled in Erie County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
New York law that applies in Buffalo
N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 170.55 — Adjournment in contemplation of dismissal.
- N.Y. CPL Article 216 (judicial diversion)
- N.Y. CPL 730 (competency)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Buffalo case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Buffalo arrest, the case is filed with Erie 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 Erie County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Buffalo
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 New York breakdown, see the New York diversion guide.
Buffalo diversion FAQs
Does Buffalo have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Buffalo are typically heard in Erie County courts, where diversion is governed by N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 170.55 (Adjournment in contemplation of dismissal) and local court and prosecutor policy. Availability depends on the charge and program capacity — a local defense attorney can confirm current options.
Where are Buffalo criminal cases heard?
Most Buffalo arrests are prosecuted in the Erie 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 Buffalo?
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 New York law.
Can felony charges in Buffalo be diverted?
It depends on New York law and the specific charge. Some New York programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Buffalo diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Buffalo?
Successful completion of a New York 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 Buffalo?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Erie County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.