The Gwinnett County Solicitor-General’s Office has expanded its use of pre-trial diversion as part of a broader effort to resolve certain misdemeanor cases more efficiently, officials said.
Since taking office, Lisamarie Bristol said she has increased the use of diversion programs designed to give eligible defendants an alternative to traditional prosecution while still requiring accountability.
“The goal is to evaluate each case individually and apply the law in a way that is both fair and practical,” Bristol said. “For eligible minor offenses, pre-trial diversion allows for accountability while helping individuals avoid the long-term impact of a conviction.”
The Pre-Trial Diversion Program allows prosecutors to review certain misdemeanor cases and determine whether an alternative resolution may be appropriate. In some situations, cases are assessed before a formal accusation is filed, which can lead to faster outcomes for residents.
According to the Solicitor-General’s Office, nearly 1,250 defendants participated in pre-trial diversion in 2025. That figure represents about 12% of the cases opened by the office during the year.
Some minor traffic citations that do not involve accidents or serious injuries may be resolved through a small donation to the Gwinnett Coalition, a nonprofit founded in 1990.
Similarly, individuals cited for certain minor hunting or fishing violations may be offered the option of resolving their case through a donation to the Georgia Wildlife Federation. Donations for both programs are capped at $175.
Officials said participation in diversion programs is voluntary and limited to eligible offenses. The alternatives can help defendants avoid outcomes that might otherwise include probation supervision, court costs and additional fees.
The Solicitor-General’s Office said it will continue reviewing cases to determine appropriate resolution pathways while balancing public safety and the interests of justice.