The Leelanau County Family Court Diversion/Prevention Program is a support program for Leelanau county youths, 17 years or younger, who are at risk for involvement with the juvenile court system.  A referral source such as the sheriff’s department, the prosecuting attorney’s office, a school official, a family member, a citizen, or the community identify youths at risk.  Each and every referral to the Family Court is handled under strict rules of confidentiality.  The Court sponsors these programs for youths and their families with the hope that investing in early intervention, positive changes can be made that will lessen the chance of problems in the future. The Court breaks down referrals into two categories, Diversion and Prevention.  

PREVENTION  

Prevention is a referral program for the early identification of youths who are experiencing behavior problems, and/or are at risk for school failure, and/or may have future involvement with the court system.  The goal of this program is to provide services to the youth and his/her family by identifying ongoing problem areas and addressing these needs with the youth, family, and school.  This can be accomplished through counseling, referrals to other service providers, and coordination of services.  

DIVERSION  

Diversion is a referral program that allows certain first-time offenders, accused of non-violent crimes, an alternative from formal court involvement.  Several factors are considered in the decision to divert, including the youth’s age, willingness to cooperate, and the nature of the offense.  If diversion is recommended, the parents and youth will be required to meet with the diversion counselor, and to draw up a diversion contract.  This program emphasizes educating the young person about the court process, and about being responsible for one’s behavior.  The youth’s compliance with the terms of the contract will be monitored.  Further law infractions will likely bring about formal court action.       

To make a referral or get more information about either of these programs, contact:

Leelanau Prevention/Diversion Program,

Leelanau County Family Court

P.O. Box 595, Courthouse

Leland, Michigan  49654-0595 

Telephone (231) 256-9803