If the defendant complies with the terms of Veterans Diversion and finishes all of the requirements, then they will be deemed to have successfully completed it. This usually takes between one and two years and varies based on the individual and their diversion treatment plan. Upon successful completion of the program, the criminal charges will be dismissed, and the defendant’s arrest record will be sealed. This means that the arrest will not appear on background checks and the defendant can answer “no” to questions about prior arrests on an application. However, the one exception is that the arrest must be disclosed if applying to be a peace officer.