2. Learn about Indigenous diversion

Telling the court about your Indigenous identity may allow you to access special Indigenous diversion programs. Indigenous diversion is only available in some courts.

Indigenous diversion is a voluntary way to resolve minor criminal charges without going to trial or pleading guilty. You're taken out of the criminal justice system and your case is dealt with by an Indigenous organization or community.

Indigenous diversion programs are designed to respond to your needs as an Indigenous person in a respectful way. It uses indigenous justice principles to help you take responsibility, and to heal and repair harm.

Talk to your lawyer or duty counsel, or to the Indigenous court worker about Indigenous diversion. It's possible to enter into diversion from custody and not go for bail.