If the Juvenile Probation Officer (JPO) recommends a non-judicial intervention program, also called as Florida juvenile diversion program, then this recommendation is reviewed by the Assistant State Attorney assigned to the case. If the State Attorney's Office agrees, then the child and his or her parents must sign certain documents to take advantage of this program.
If the program is successfully completed, then the prosecutor takes no further action to prosecute the case. On the other hand, if the program is not completed, then the state attorney's office will file a formal charge with the clerk of court's office, called a petition, against the juvenile.
A waiver of speedy trial rights and agreement to complete all of the requirements of the diversion program must be signed by both minor and parent or guardian. The diversion program essentially diverts the child away from the Florida juvenile courts and through a program run by the State Attorney's Office.