Justine Olderman and Adam Mansky

This paper aims to assist prosecutors, judges, defense attorneys, social-service programs, and government agencies in identifying critical considerations when developing or enhancing family-based diversion programs. It will help navigate potential pitfalls that can hinder a program’s ability to effectively serve those most affected—caregivers, their children, and their communities—while avoiding unintended harms. To that end, after outlining the foundational features of family-based justice, this paper identifies key decisions and choices involved in structuring such a program, including the benefits and drawbacks of different options for protocols, policies, and practices.