Last updated April 2026
The Office of the State Attorney for Broward County (17th Judicial Circuit) offers eligible defendants the Misdemeanor Diversion Program (MDP) — a pretrial program designed to resolve certain misdemeanor charges without a conviction.
MDP allows qualifying first-time offenders to complete structured program requirements in exchange for dismissal of charges.
For a broader overview of diversion options in Florida, see how Florida diversion programs work and who qualifies.
⚖️ What Is the Broward County MDP?
MDP is a local pretrial diversion program administered by the Broward Sheriff’s Office Probation Division.
Instead of proceeding through traditional prosecution, participants complete court-approved conditions. Upon successful completion, the State dismisses the charges.
MDP is typically offered for minor, non-violent misdemeanor offenses.
🎯 Who Is Eligible for MDP?
In Broward County, MDP eligibility is often influenced not just by the charge, but by how the case is likely to be viewed by a jury. Cases involving weak evidence, minimal loss, or strong mitigation are more likely to be approved—especially when those factors are presented early.
Eligibility is determined at arraignment and by the State Attorney’s Office.
In general, candidates must:
• Be a first-time offender
• Face a non-violent misdemeanor
• Have no disqualifying prior convictions
• Agree to accept responsibility
• Be willing to comply with supervision requirements
Common charges eligible for MDP include:
• Petit theft
• Possession of marijuana or paraphernalia
• Disorderly conduct
• Criminal mischief
• Minor alcohol offenses
Admission is discretionary — not automatic.
📋 How the Program Works
If accepted into MDP, you will be placed under structured supervision.
Typical program requirements include:
• Community service hours
• Educational courses (e.g., theft prevention, anger management)
• Drug or alcohol evaluation (when applicable)
• Payment of administrative fees and restitution
The program typically lasts 3 to 6 months, depending on the charge and supervision level.
Upon successful completion:
• The State Attorney dismisses the charges
• No conviction is entered
• You may later qualify for sealing or expungement
This type of outcome—dismissal after completion—is one of the ways criminal charges can be dropped before trial in Florida.
⚠️ What Happens If You Fail to Complete MDP?
Failure to complete program requirements results in:
• Removal from MDP
• Return of the case to criminal court
• Resumption of prosecution
The State may proceed as if diversion had never been offered.
In those situations, attorneys may shift strategy toward alternative outcomes, including how adjudication withheld works in Florida and when it’s available.
🧭 Strategic Considerations
MDP can be one of the fastest ways to resolve a misdemeanor case in Broward County — but timing matters.
In many cases, eligibility decisions are effectively made before arraignment, making early preparation and presentation critical.
Diversion opportunities are strongest:
• Before repeated violations occur
• Before bond issues arise
• Before negotiation positions harden
Early advocacy can improve acceptance chances.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for diversion more generally, see whether you qualify for a diversion programs in Florida.
📞 Speak With a Broward Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor in Broward County, diversion may allow you to avoid a conviction entirely.
Call (954) 270-0769 for a confidential consultation.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions: Misdemeanor Diversion Program (MDP) – Broward County
Q1: What is the Misdemeanor Diversion Program in Broward County?
A: MDP is a pretrial diversion program for eligible first-time misdemeanor offenders. It allows participants to avoid prosecution by completing certain conditions such as community service or educational classes.
Q2: Who qualifies for MDP in Broward County?
A: You may qualify if you are a first-time offender charged with a non-violent misdemeanor and are willing to accept responsibility. Final eligibility is determined at arraignment.
Q3: What happens if I complete the MDP successfully?
A: If you complete all conditions, the State Attorney’s Office will dismiss the charges, and you will avoid a criminal conviction on your record.
Q4: What happens if I fail to complete the program?
A: If you violate the terms or fail to complete the program, your case returns to criminal court, and the State may proceed with formal prosecution.
Q5: Do I need a lawyer to apply for MDP in Broward County?
A: While not required, having a lawyer like Michael White can help ensure you’re considered for the program and protect your rights if you don’t qualify.