Avoid a Criminal Conviction: Deschutes County’s Emerging Adult Program (EAP)

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Originally Posted 6 days ago

Avoid a Criminal Conviction: Deschutes County’s Emerging Adult Program (EAP)

If you’re between the ages of 18 and 25 and have been charged with a crime in Deschutes County, the Emerging Adult Program (EAP) offers a unique opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction and redirect your life toward a positive path. Launched in 2021, the EAP is a restorative justice diversion program designed to help young adults take responsibility for their actions and make amends, all while keeping their criminal record clean.

What Is the Emerging Adult Program?

The EAP is a pre-charge, restorative justice initiative that allows eligible participants to:

Avoid formal criminal charges by engaging in restorative justice circles and completing a personalized accountability plan.
Repair harm caused by their actions through structured community engagement.
Access local services that support education, employment, and personal growth.
Foster community healing by participating in a collaborative process involving victims, facilitators, and case managers.

This program is a collaborative effort among the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office, Community Solutions of Central Oregon, Thrive Central Oregon, Deschutes Defenders, the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC), and Deschutes County Behavioral Health Services Intensive Youth Services.

Participant Expectations

To be eligible for the EAP, individuals must:

Accept responsibility for their actions.
Participate in community-facilitator-led restorative circles.
Agree to complete a personalized accountability plan.
Obey all laws during enrollment in the program.
Regularly connect with a case manager.
Reconnect periodically with community facilitators during the six-month enrollment period.

Eligibility Criteria

Participants must:

Be between 18 and 25 years old.
Have committed an approved type of crime in Deschutes County.
Reside in Deschutes, Jefferson, or Crook County.

Navigating the criminal justice system can be complex, especially when you’re seeking alternatives like the EAP. An experienced Oregon criminal defense attorney can:

Advocate on your behalf to ensure you’re considered for the EAP.
Negotiate with the District Attorney’s Office to present your case for diversion.
Guide you through the restorative justice process, ensuring you meet all program requirements.
Protect your rights and ensure you understand the implications of your choices.

Hiring an attorney who is familiar with the Central Oregon area and practices in Deschutes County is crucial. Local attorneys have established relationships with the District Attorney’s Office and are well-versed in local procedures, increasing your chances of being accepted into the program.

Need Legal Assistance?

Facing criminal charges is daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact our office for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you explore all available options, including the Emerging Adult Program, to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Call us now at 541-508-4716.

I always make sure to get my clients all of the insurance benefits they are entitled to. This includes finding all insurance policies that cover my clients’ medical expenses.

Gary R. Johnson Law is here to help and advocate for you.

We never charge for an initial consultation, so give us a call today.