Municipal Courts Department

Youth Diversion

The City of Houston Municipal Courts Youth Diversion Program, established under Article 45A.506 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, aims to keep youth ages 10 to 16 out of the justice system. It diverts juveniles charged with non-traffic Class C misdemeanors away from formal prosecution by offering early intervention strategies that reduce recidivism and guide them toward a more positive future. Participation in the program is voluntary. Instead of receiving a formal adjudication of guilt, the juvenile and their parent may agree to a diversion plan, tailored during a screening process. This plan may include options such as, Teen Court participation, up to 20 hours of community service, educational programs (e.g., alcohol or tobacco awareness), juvenile case manager services, and other appropriate interventions based on the alleged offense. Following the successful completion of the Youth Diversion plan, the juvenile's court record will be automatically expunged when turning 18 years of age and avoids having a permanent juvenile court record.

• View the Diversion Plan (.pdf)