Drug Court

Drug Court is a special court given the responsibility to handle cases involving substance-abusing offenders through comprehensive supervision, drug testing, treatment services, and immediate sanctions and incentives. Drug Court offers individuals facing criminal charges for drug use and possession an opportunity to enter a substance abuse recovery program instead of straight jail time. The requirements of Drug Court are strict because the road to recovery is not easy. A candidate is tested frequently, must attend substance abuse recovery meetings, and make regular court appearances to abide by the requirements of Drug Court.

Drug Court programs bring the full weight of all interveners (judges, prosecutors, defense counsel, education and vocational experts, community leaders, and others) into the fold, forcing the offender to deal with his or her substance abuse problem from every possible angle.

Drug Court provides one of the most viable options for eligible substance-abuse offenders. Whether the individual enters the judicial system because of a criminal offense, delinquent behavior, or neglect or abuse of their children, they can benefit from the enhanced supervision provided in the Drug Court system. Not only do offenders benefit, but public safety is also strengthened through the monitoring and accountability that occurs within Drug Court. A candidate who gets through all requirements imposed by the Drug Court graduates with their sobriety, resulting in the dismissal, reduction (or setting aside) of their offense, or with a lesser penalty or a combination thereof imposed.