When you’re facing criminal charges, your criminal defense attorney works with you to explore all of your options. Pursing the best resolution of your case may mean taking advantage of participation in a drug treatment court. It’s important to understand what drug courts are and whether they’re right for you.

Are there drug courts in Pennsylvania?

Yes, there are drug courts in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Association of Drug Court Professionals (PADCP) is an organization that creates guidance for the operation of drug courts throughout the Commonwealth. Even though there are state organizations that offer accreditation and oversight, courts operate on a local level within each local court system.

What is drug court in Pennsylvania?

Drug court in Pennsylvania is a program in the criminal justice system intended to help offenders address substance abuse issues that may be the underlying cause of contact with the criminal justice system. The program involves the courts, a prosecutor, defense counsel and treatment providers who all work together to help the defendant address substance abuse issues. The goal is to give the defendant access to the resources that they need to address a substance abuse issue rather than simply pursuing punitive goals in the criminal justice system.

Should I participate in drug court in Pennsylvania?

Whether you should participate in drug court in Pennsylvania depends on the specifics of your case and your goals for the future. First, in order to participate in drug court, you must qualify. An offender may not have a prior arrest for a violent crime. Qualifying charges are typically drug and DUI related.

If you qualify, there are a number of benefits to participating in the program. If you complete the program successfully, the criminal charges against you may be dismissed or reduced. Graduates of the program have relatively low re-offense rates. Participation in the program may also help provide a link to resources that the individual may need for success including employment, housing and social support.

However, drug court is not appropriate in every case. The offender typically must plead no contest to the charges. The defendant does not have a trial in front of the jury. In addition, a person who wants to enter drug court should be fully aware of the requirements. They must be prepared to attend treatment and complete monitoring in order to graduate from the program.

Is drug court right for me in Pennsylvania?

If you’re facing criminal charges, drug court may be one possibility to explore. Our criminal defense attorney team can help you understand if participating in a drug court program is right for you. Before you make your decision, our criminal defense attorney team can help you understand if you qualify to participate in the program, how it may benefit you and what the requirements are along the way. In addition, we help you explore all legal defenses and the best ways to fight the allegations against you. Contact us today in order to talk about your case.