{"id":286679,"date":"2016-08-05T11:03:05","date_gmt":"2016-08-05T16:03:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/dui\/cases\/dui-diversion-programs-what-they-are-and-how-they-work.html"},"modified":"2026-04-16T13:06:46","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T18:06:46","slug":"dui-diversion-programs-what-they-are-and-how-they-work","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/dui\/cases\/dui-diversion-programs-what-they-are-and-how-they-work.html","title":{"rendered":"DUI Diversion Programs: How To Avoid a DUI"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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DUI Diversion Programs: How To Avoid a DUI<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Susan Buckner, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Rhonda Earhart, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Diversion programs are an alternative way to resolve a DUI case<\/span>. If you complete the program requirements<\/span>, you can get your DUI charges<\/span> dismissed or, in some states, avoid the penalties. DUI diversion programs<\/span> vary but often involve community service<\/span>, substance abuse<\/span> counseling<\/span>, or the use of an ignition interlock device<\/span> (IID). This option is only available to defendants who meet the eligibility<\/span> criteria, such as whether it\u2019s your first offense<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Driving under the influence<\/span> (DUI) is a criminal offense that carries significant penalties. A drugged or drunk driving<\/span> conviction can lead to driver\u2019s <\/span>license<\/span> suspension<\/span>, jail time<\/span>, fines, and more. Even a first-time DUI<\/span> offender<\/span> could face these consequences.<\/p>\n

Yet, the courts also recognize that it can be better to treat the underlying problem rather than punish the offender. DUI diversion programs<\/span> are available for those who deserve a second chance<\/span>.<\/p>\n

Completing a diversion program is only one way to defend against DUI charges<\/span>. Get legal advice<\/span> from a DUI defense attorney<\/span><\/a> to decide which strategy is right for your case.<\/p>\n

Learn more about DUI diversion programs<\/span> below:<\/p>\n