CAN I CHOOSE DRUG COURT TO AVOID CRIMINAL CHARGES?
Long-standing debates have questioned whether to punish those who have drug addictions with jailtime or treat them to absolve the addiction instead. The state of Alabama recognizes that an addiction can be corrected differently than other criminal behavior.
Drug court programs offer an alternative to criminal prosecution for those who have been charged with drug-related offenses, such as possession of an illegal drug. Read on to learn more.
Does going to drug court eliminate a drug charge?
Attending drug court does not entirely eliminate a drug charge and the penalties that come with it. Defendants must still make payments for:
- Cost of treatment
- Testing
- Drug education courses
- Court fines
- Attorney fees
However, depending on a number of factors surrounding the case, your charges may be dismissed if you complete the program. Dismissed charges may still appear on your criminal record, unless they are expunged.
Does drug court substitute jailtime?
Drug court is an alternative to serving jail time.
What happens in drug court?
Defendants will be required to participate in a treatment plan and drug education courses.
How do I choose drug court?
An attorney can help you apply to Drug Court and prepare for an interview, so that you may be approved by the district attorney to participate in the program.
Those who have been convicted of a violent felony or any felony involving a firearm may not qualify for drug court. Those who have been charged with a violent or sexual crime are also not eligible for drug court.
If you are facing drug charges, talk to a criminal defense attorney to learn more about the benefits of drug court and whether it may be an option for you.