Burlington Mental Health Diversion Programs
If you or a loved one was arrested in Burlington during a mental health crisis, Vermont law may allow the case to be diverted into treatment instead of traditional prosecution. Burlington cases are generally handled in Chittenden County courts — this guide explains how diversion works there, who qualifies, and what happens after.
Vermont law that applies in Burlington
3 V.S.A. § 164 — Adult court diversion.
- Vermont treatment dockets
Citations pending attorney review.
How a Burlington case moves into diversion
- 1. Arrest & booking. After a Burlington arrest, the case is filed with Chittenden 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 Chittenden County court or program staff.
- 5. Dismissal. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges and possible record sealing.
Who may qualify in Burlington
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 Vermont breakdown, see the Vermont diversion guide.
Burlington diversion FAQs
Does Burlington have a mental health diversion program?
Criminal cases from Burlington are typically heard in Chittenden County courts, where diversion is governed by 3 V.S.A. § 164 (Adult court 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 Burlington criminal cases heard?
Most Burlington arrests are prosecuted in the Chittenden 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 Burlington?
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 Vermont law.
Can felony charges in Burlington be diverted?
It depends on Vermont law and the specific charge. Some Vermont programs accept certain felonies; others are limited to misdemeanors. A Burlington diversion lawyer can review whether your charge is eligible.
What happens if I complete diversion in Burlington?
Successful completion of a Vermont 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 Burlington?
Look for a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in Chittenden County courts and has handled diversion or mental health court cases. You can request a match through this site at no cost.