Philadelphia Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Philadelphia during a mental health crisis, Pennsylvania law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Philadelphia cases are generally handled in Philadelphia County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Pennsylvania law that applies in Philadelphia
Pa.R.Crim.P. 310-320 — Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD).
- Pennsylvania county mental health courts
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Philadelphia case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Philadelphia arrest, the case is filed with Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Philadelphia
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 Pennsylvania breakdown, see the Pennsylvania diversion guide.
Philadelphia diversion FAQs
Does Philadelphia have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Philadelphia are typically heard in Philadelphia County courts, where diversion is governed by Pa.R.Crim.P. 310-320 (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)) and local court and prosecutor policy. Availability depends on the charge and program capacity — a local defense attorney can confirm current options.
Where are Philadelphia criminal cases heard?
Most Philadelphia arrests are prosecuted in the Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
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 Pennsylvania law.
Can felony charges in Philadelphia be diverted?
It depends on Pennsylvania law and the specific charge. Some Pennsylvania programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Philadelphia diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Philadelphia?
Successful completion of a Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Philadelphia County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.