Defending Your Rights. Protecting Your Future.

The drug courts can be an option for those facing charges

On Behalf of | Jan 31, 2025 | Drug Crimes

Most people facing drug charges have two main options. They can plead guilty or assert their innocence. In cases where police may have identified the wrong suspect or violated someone’s rights, a defendant facing drug charges may have a good chance of prevailing if they take the case to trial. Others facing strong cases often plead guilty.

For some people, there may be a third option available. Ohio offers drug court proceedings as an alternative to traditional criminal trials. The criminal drug courts offer an alternative option to those accused of drug possession and similar offenses. The family drug courts can help parents accused of neglect because of substance abuse issues. For those who qualify, the drug courts can be a viable alternative to a guilty plea or a trial.

How do the drug courts work?

Some people refer to the drug courts as treatment courts. The goal is to address the underlying substance abuse issue that led to criminal activity. Typically, only those who break the law because of a substance abuse issue are eligible for drug court proceedings. The courts have to agree that the defendant meets the standards for a presumption of probation and that they have adequate motivation to complete the program.

Generally, defendants are eligible for drug court when they face low-level felony charges. The defendant must also have a diagnosed chemical dependency. Those with multiple prior felonies, including drug trafficking and violent crimes, may not be eligible.

Drug court proceedings typically involve agreeing to intensive court supervision. Defendants have to attend regular meetings with court-appointed professionals. They must submit to regular drug screenings.

Most of the time, they also need to complete rehabilitation services. They may need to spend time at an inpatient facility or undergo intensive outpatient support. The drug court process takes more than a year to complete, but it can help people achieve sobriety. Defendants can connect with treatment options that can help them avoid relapsing and returning to substance abuse in the future.

Discussing drug court as an option with a skilled legal team can be beneficial for those accused of committing drug crimes. Those who qualify for drug court proceedings can avoid traditional criminal penalties while simultaneously getting support to address an issue that has negatively affected their lives.