Specialty Courts & Diversionary Programs in Scranton, PA

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As the former District Attorney for Lackawanna County, Shane Scanlon has deep experience supervising and refining specialty courts and diversionary programs in Northeastern Pennsylvania, helping individuals with non-violent offenses find alternatives to traditional criminal prosecution.

Specialty courts and diversion programs focus on addressing the underlying issues that can contribute to criminal behavior — such as substance use, mental health challenges, or trauma — while offering structured pathways toward rehabilitation and reduced legal penalties.

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What Are Specialty Courts & Diversion Programs?

Specialty courts — also called problem-solving courts — are designed to divert eligible individuals away from conventional court processing into programs that address root causes of criminal conduct and reduce rates of recidivism.

In Lackawanna County, participants may qualify for programs including:

  • Treatment Courts (Drug & DUI Courts) – Intensive programming for substance misuse issues
  • Mental Health Court – Focuses on defendants with diagnosed mental health conditions.
  • Family Treatment Court – Helps families address substance abuse with a focus on stabilization.
  • Veterans Court – Tailored support for eligible veterans.
  • Domestic Violence Court – Addresses underlying factors and promotes accountability.
  • Re-Entry Court – Supports individuals transitioning back to the community.

These courts typically combine frequent judicial oversight with treatment, counseling, and community services to support recovery and well-being.

ARD and Pennsylvania Sections 17 & 18

Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD)
 For eligible first-time offenders, the ARD program provides probation with treatment and often community service instead of incarceration. Successful completion can lead to dismissal of charges.

Section 17 – Probation Without Verdict
 Allows a non-violent, drug-dependent defendant to receive treatment while on probation. Completion may result in charges being dismissed.

Section 18 – Disposition in Lieu of Trial
 Offers a similar opportunity for treatment — substance abuse or mental health — with the possibility that charges are withdrawn or held in abeyance and dismissed upon successful completion.

Get Legal Guidance Today

Understanding eligibility for specialty courts, ARD, or Sections 17/18 can be complex. Shane Scanlon Law can help you navigate these programs to pursue the most favorable legal outcomes for your situation.

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