Court Services

Pretrial Services:  Durham County’s Pretrial Services was established in 2006 to create a systematic approach for recommending release and community supervision for defendants who do not pose a risk to the community as they await trial. Pretrial Services completes a Public Safety Assessment for people court officials and supervises individuals the court releases to JSD Pretrial Services

Diversion: Two Diversion programs are available.

• Law enforcement may refer first time misdemeanor offenders. The Diversion coordinator meets with the individual and develops a diversion plan.  If the individual successfully completes, the charge is removed and no criminal record is started.
• For lower level felonies, the District Attorney or defense attorney can refer a defendant for post arrest diversion.  If the individual successfully completes the program, the District and Defense Attorney agreed upon disposition is enacted.