Tulsa Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Tulsa during a mental health crisis, Oklahoma law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Tulsa cases are generally handled in Tulsa County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Oklahoma law that applies in Tulsa
22 O.S. § 472 — Mental health court programs.
- 22 O.S. § 305.1 (deferred prosecution)
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Tulsa case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Tulsa arrest, the case is filed with Tulsa 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 Tulsa County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Tulsa
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 Oklahoma breakdown, see the Oklahoma diversion guide.
Tulsa diversion FAQs
Does Tulsa have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Tulsa are typically heard in Tulsa County courts, where diversion is governed by 22 O.S. § 472 (Mental health court programs) and local court and prosecutor policy. Availability depends on the charge and program capacity — a local defense attorney can confirm current options.
Where are Tulsa criminal cases heard?
Most Tulsa arrests are prosecuted in the Tulsa 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 Tulsa?
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 Oklahoma law.
Can felony charges in Tulsa be diverted?
It depends on Oklahoma law and the specific charge. Some Oklahoma programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Tulsa diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Tulsa?
Successful completion of a Oklahoma 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 Tulsa?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Tulsa County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.